As an intense cold front sweeps through central Ohio, many school districts are reacting by canceling or delaying classes on Tuesday due to the extreme drop in temperatures and expected wind chills. Forecasts predict that wind chills could plummet as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday morning, prompting safety concerns for students and residents alike.
Columbus City Schools are among those adjusting their schedules, as students will not attend classes on Tuesday for a previously scheduled Professional Development Day. Additionally, there will be no classes on Wednesday for Records Day. Other districts making the decision to close include Big Walnut Local Schools, Coshocton City Schools, Delaware City Schools, Franklin Local Schools, Johnstown-Monroe Local Schools, Newark City Schools, Olentangy Local Schools, Reynoldsburg City Schools, Southwest Licking Local Schools, Whitehall City Schools, and Zanesville City Schools, which will operate on a two-hour delay.
As temperatures are expected to dip to around 5 degrees on Monday night, the combination of cold air and wind will make it feel even colder. The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory to emphasize the hazardous conditions that can arise from the arctic blast affecting the area.
10TV will provide continuous updates on school closures and delays as more districts announce their plans in response to the weather. Despite the harsh conditions, forecasts indicate that temperatures will begin to stabilize by the middle of the week, bringing hope for a return to milder weather.
Residents are advised to stay informed about the weather and to take precautions during this extremely cold period.