Over 500 schools close for two days as extreme cold grips Northeast Ohio
Northeast Ohio is facing an extreme cold snap, with temperatures expected to remain dangerously low through Wednesday, leading to widespread school closures across the region. Over 500 schools, including K-12 districts, colleges, and universities, have announced cancellations for both Tuesday and Wednesday due to the bitter cold.
As temperatures plunge to subzero levels, wind chills are forecasted to remain between 15 to 25 degrees below zero. The University of Akron was the first major institution to announce remote learning and work on Tuesday, followed by several others including Stark State College, Cuyahoga Community College, and Lake Erie College. Akron Public Schools also took the precaution of closing for both Tuesday and Wednesday due to the severe weather, and many other districts, such as Canton City Schools and the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, quickly followed suit.
Dangerously cold conditions continue
Tuesday is expected to be the coldest day of the week, with the mercury dipping well below freezing overnight. FOX 8 meteorologists report that wind chills could feel as low as -25°F, creating hazardous conditions for students and staff traveling to school. “The cold will be dangerous for anyone outside for extended periods,” said a FOX 8 meteorologist.
As temperatures continue to remain extremely low, local authorities have stressed the importance of staying indoors as much as possible. Residents are urged to take precautions, including dressing in layers and covering exposed skin, to prevent frostbite or hypothermia.
School districts monitor the situation
The Cleveland Metropolitan School District, which initially planned to keep schools open on Wednesday, announced late Monday that all schools would be closed for Tuesday. An update regarding Wednesday’s schedule is expected by Tuesday afternoon. The district, like many others, continues to monitor the weather and adjust plans accordingly.
Temperatures are expected to gradually warm up later in the week, with a rebound forecasted by Thursday, offering some relief to residents across Northeast Ohio.
