With the impending arrival of Hurricane Matthew, the University of South Carolina has decided to close its campus doors through Friday, Oct. 7 and all classes are cancelled.

Here’s a statement from the school:

University officials are consulting with state and local officials as we continue to assess the situation for the rest of the week as the track of Hurricane Matthew becomes more defined. A decision regarding Saturday’s football game against the University of Georgia will be made later this week in consultation with state and local officials as well as the Southeastern Conference. The safety of all people and the minimization of impact on emergency personnel are the most important factors in this decision. Our goal is to keep this football game at Williams-Brice Stadium.

As we relayed earlier, South Carolina officials are still figuring out the best route to take for Saturday’s home game vs. Georgia, though the most realistic option at this point is likely a postponement until Sunday.

The University of South Carolina is encouraging students, faculty and staff to stay at home and stay off the roads as the evacuation of the state’s coastal region proceeds. Always obey all emergency personnel, signs, etc. Please take reasonable steps to ensure your safety and the safety of your family. At this time, the Columbia area is not included in the evacuation order and we do not anticipate a need for students to leave.

Saturday Down South will continue to monitor this story line until a decision has been made.