Brutal Arctic Cold Forces Widespread School Closures Across Ohio
A deep Arctic blast is gripping parts of the United States right now and in central and northeast Ohio, it is forcing a major disruption to daily life, especially for families and schools.
Dangerously cold air has settled over the region, with temperatures plunging well below zero and wind chills sinking into the negative teens. Weather officials have warned that exposed skin can be at risk of frostbite in minutes. That level of cold is not just uncomfortable, it is unsafe and school leaders are responding quickly.
Across central Ohio, dozens of school districts have canceled classes entirely, while others have delayed start times by two hours. The concern is not only about students waiting at bus stops in extreme cold, but also about transportation safety, building heating systems and the overall health of children and staff. In many areas, the decision was made after wind chill values dropped to levels rarely seen in recent winters.
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Counties around Columbus, including Franklin, Delaware, Licking, Union, Madison and Fairfield, are among those affected. Private schools, charter schools, career centers and faith-based academies have also shut their doors for the day. Even districts that remained open opted for delays, hoping to allow temperatures to rise slightly after sunrise.
In northeast Ohio, the situation is just as severe. Wind chills between ten and twenty below zero greeted residents early in the morning, prompting widespread closures there as well. Some areas east of Cleveland are also dealing with lake-effect snow, adding another layer of risk to already treacherous conditions.
This matters beyond just one day off school. Extreme cold puts stress on families who must adjust work schedules, arrange childcare, or ensure students have safe supervision at home. It also highlights how vulnerable infrastructure can be when Arctic air pushes far south. Power systems, heating units and transportation networks are all tested during events like this.
Looking ahead, forecasters say temperatures should gradually ease over the next couple of days, with highs eventually climbing closer to freezing. However, more snow and another surge of cold air are possible later in the week, meaning disruptions may not be over yet.
For now, the message from officials is clear. Safety comes first. Parents are urged to monitor district announcements closely, limit time outdoors and take cold-weather precautions seriously.
Stay with us as we continue to track school closings, delays and changing weather conditions and keep following for the latest updates as this winter system unfolds.
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