Schools adjust schedules as severe storms head our way. Here's what to know.

Terrebonne public schools will dismiss students early today as severe storms with the potential for tornadoes head toward the area.

Here's what to know:

Plans for Terrebonne and Lafourche schools

In Terrebonne, the first dismissal for high and junior high schools will begin at 1:45 p.m. for students who drive. Others will be dismissed as soon as buses arrive.

Lafourche schools will have normal dismissal times.

Both systems have canceled after-school activities.

A normal schedule will resume Wednesday.

Shelter to open in Houma

A temporary shelter for Terrebonne residents will open at 7 tonight at the Houma Municipal Auditorium, 880 Verret St.

"The temporary shelter is only being provided for those who feel they need a safer place than their current house, travel trailer or modular home unit," the Terrebonne Office of Emergency Preparedness said via Facebook. "Residents in FEMA or State of Louisiana travel trailers (RV), modular home units or damaged homes are encouraged to seek safe shelter at a relative or friend’s home if possible."

Check the Facebook post for shelter guidelines.

What's the weather threat?

A line of severe thunderstorms accompanying a cold front is expected to sweep east across the area starting about 9 tonight and ending around 1 a.m. Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Here's what to expect:

Rain: 1-3 inches of rain per hour are possible starting this afternoon and continuing through early Wednesday morning. The Weather Service says there is a marginal risk of flash flooding.

Strong winds: Sustained winds of 30-40 mph with gusts up to 55 mph are expected from noon today through 6 a.m. Wednesday.

Small boat warnings: A small craft advisory is in effect through Wednesday morning for coastal waters in Terrebonne and Lafourche. Seas of 5-7 feet, occasionally to 9 feet, are expected this afternoon. South winds of 30-35 knots are expected tonight, becoming westerly at 25-35 knots after midnight, with gusts up to 55 knots. Seas of 6-9 feet, occasionally to 11 feet, are expected tonight. Expect rain and thunderstorms throughout the night and early morning.

What to do

Advice from the National Weather Service:

• Stay tuned to media and National Weather Service updates, especially before you go to bed tonight.

• Avoid being outside around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows.

• Do not cross water covered roads and be especially cautious if traveling overnight tonight.

• "Mariners, dangerous marine conditions can be expected later today going into tonight with enhanced waves/seas and strong gale- to storm-force winds," the Weather Service says. "Marine travel is not recommended."

This article originally appeared on Daily Comet: Schools adjust schedules as severe storms head our way. What to know.