Chicago Under Siege: Extreme Cold Forces School Closures

Chicago is bracing for a potentially historic cold snap, leading to widespread school closures and prompting urgent safety warnings for residents. The National Weather Service has issued warnings as temperatures plummet, with dangerous wind chills expected to make conditions feel significantly colder.

Dramatic Temperature Drop Expected

The temperature decline began Thursday night, with lows forecast to reach -5 to -10°F. However, Friday will bring the brunt of the cold, with an extreme cold watch in effect from 3 a.m. to noon. Wind chills are predicted to plunge to a bone-chilling -30 to -35°F, posing a serious risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Despite mostly sunny skies, the high temperature for Friday is expected to hover around 0°F. The cold will persist into Friday night, with temperatures again dipping to -5 to -10°F.

Chicago Public Schools Closed Friday

In response to the severe weather, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) announced the closure of all schools on Friday morning. Classes are canceled, and all CPS buildings will remain closed. This closure extends to all extracurricular activities, athletic practices, games, and events. Crucially, there will be no remote learning options available for students on Friday.

CPS has confirmed that classes will resume for all students and staff on Monday, January 26th. Parents and students are encouraged to check the CPS website for the latest updates and information.

Widespread School Disruptions

Beyond CPS, numerous other schools and districts in the Chicago area have also announced closures or a shift to e-learning for Friday. A comprehensive list of school closures can be found here. (Source: NBC Chicago)

Staying Safe in Extreme Cold

The extreme cold poses significant health risks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers valuable guidance on staying safe during cold weather, including dressing in layers, limiting outdoor exposure, and recognizing the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. It’s vital to check on vulnerable neighbors and family members during this period.

Key Safety Tips:

• Dress in multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
• Cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite.
• Limit time spent outdoors.
• Stay dry – wet clothing increases the risk of hypothermia.
• Recognize the symptoms of frostbite (numbness, pale skin) and hypothermia (shivering, confusion).

Stay informed and prioritize safety as Chicago navigates this dangerous cold snap.