Western New York is dealing with a brutal blast of Arctic air that has sent temperatures plunging and forced schools across the region to close. The frigid conditions, combined with biting wind chills, have made it too dangerous for students and staff to travel or be outdoors for extended periods.
What’s Going On?
Temperatures have dropped into the single digits, with wind chills making it feel much colder—sometimes below zero. The extreme cold is creating risks that school districts aren’t willing to take, leading to closures for the safety of everyone involved.
- Daytime Temperatures: Highs are stuck in the teens, but wind chills make it feel much worse.
- Wind Chill Effect: The gusty winds mean exposed skin can quickly be at risk for frostbite, even in a matter of minutes.
Why Schools Are Closing
School leaders have decided that the risks of keeping schools open are simply too high. Here’s why:
- Waiting at Bus Stops: In these temperatures, standing outside for even a few minutes can be dangerous.
- Icy Sidewalks and Roads: Many students walk to school or wait for buses on untreated sidewalks, which can be slippery and treacherous.
- Heating Concerns: Some school buildings, especially older ones, may not be able to maintain safe and comfortable temperatures during extreme cold.
How to Stay Safe During This Cold Snap
- Limit Outdoor Time: If you don’t need to go out, stay inside. If you must go outside, bundle up with layers and cover as much skin as possible.
- Watch for Frostbite: Signs of frostbite include numbness, tingling, or pale, waxy skin. If you notice these symptoms, get indoors and warm up immediately.
- Keep Pets Warm: Bring pets indoors, and if they must be outside briefly, make sure they have access to shelter and freshwater that hasn’t frozen.
- Be Prepared: Have extra blankets, flashlights, and snacks on hand in case the cold causes power outages.
What’s Next?
This bitter cold is expected to stick around through midweek, with a slight warm-up possible by the weekend. School districts will monitor the weather closely and announce reopening plans when conditions improve.
Final Thoughts
This kind of weather isn’t something to take lightly. While school closures might be inconvenient, they’re a necessary step to keep students, staff, and families safe.
Stay warm, check on neighbors or loved ones who might need help, and take things slow until this Arctic blast moves out. Brighter—and warmer—days are just around the corner!
