Seven schools in Chicago announced cancellations, closures, or transitions to remote learning on Tuesday due to ongoing cold weather.
According to the National Weather Service, Tuesday morning in some areas could see temperatures as low as -30 degrees, and sub-zero air temperatures will persist throughout the day. The weather forecast indicates that the maximum temperature on Tuesday will be 9 degrees.
In northwest Indiana, local schools in Lake Station announced the closure of all facilities on Tuesday "due to extreme weather conditions." Remote learning will not take place, but make-up days are scheduled for April 21, 2025.
A few other schools announced remote learning or delayed start due to such conditions, including Lyons District 103 public schools, Dalton West District 148, and Joliet District 86.
As reported on the Chicago Public Schools website, they remain open.
“The mission of Chicago Public Schools is to keep schools open at all times,” the website states. “We do not want students to miss valuable instructional time and meals, which they depend on heavily during the school day. Therefore, CPS will do everything possible to ensure classes proceed as long as it is safe for students and staff.”
The current list of school closures from the Emergency Closing Center can be found here.
Health experts warn that cold weather can also cause dehydration, which can catch people off guard.
“We typically associate dehydration with hot weather, but in cold weather we can also often become dehydrated because we feel less thirsty and generally drink less fluids during this time,” said Dr.Santina Vyt from Northwestern Medicine. “Additionally, when it’s cold outside, we are indoors with heating. Dry air can also increase water loss through evaporation.”
Vyt recommends drinking fluids throughout the day and keeping a clean humidifier nearby. If you don’t have a humidifier, she suggests placing a bowl of water near a heat source in your home.
Signs of dehydration during severe cold may include dry mouth and skin, dizziness, headaches, and nosebleeds.
Heating points
According to the Chicago Emergency Management and Communication Department, over 200 warming centers will be available through Friday, including locations at Chicago Public Library and Park District facilities, city colleges, and police stations.
Below is a list of other community warming centers open from 9:00 to 17:00:
Englewood Community Service Center - 1140 West 79th Street
Garfield Community Service Center - 10 South Kedzie Avenue
Dr. Martin Luther King Community Service Center - 4314 South Cottage Grove
North Area Community Service Center - 845 West Wilson Avenue
South Chicago Community Service Center - 8650 South Commercial Avenue
Trina Davila Community Service Center - 4312 West North Avenue
