Iowa is currently experiencing extreme cold weather conditions, leaving many residents to wonder if schools will close. The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts that temperatures in Des Moines and central Iowa could plummet below zero for several days at the beginning of December. On December 3, the projected low temperature is expected to reach a staggering 12 degrees below zero, with wind gusts up to 18 mph. By December 4, the cold snap is anticipated to peak, bringing high temperatures of just 16 degrees and wind chill values dropping to 10 degrees below zero.
Record Cold in Iowa: Will Schools Close?
As winter approaches, many Iowa school districts are faced with decisions about whether to hold classes amid these frigid temperatures. Here’s an overview of how various districts handle closures due to extreme cold.
Ames Community School District
- Ames does not establish a specific temperature threshold for closing schools.
- The district closely monitors NWS forecasts to inform its decisions.
- Consultations with experts guide the decision-making process.
Dallas Center-Grimes Community School District
- School closure occurs when wind chill reaches 30 degrees below zero.
- The district relies on NWS for accurate temperature readings.
Des Moines Public Schools
- There is no fixed temperature that prompts cancellations.
- Decisions depend on expert guidance and the operations team’s experience.
- Factors considered include air temperature and wind chill.
Johnston Community School District
- Classes may be canceled if temperatures are forecasted to reach 25 degrees below zero.
- Wind chill predicting 40 degrees below zero at 6 a.m. can also trigger cancellations.
Southeast Polk Community School District
- Like others, no specific temperature limits are established.
- Decisions are made based on information from numerous agencies.
- School cancellations are typically decided by 5:30 a.m.
Urbandale Community School District
- Schools cancel if temperatures reach 25 degrees below zero or if wind chill is forecasted at 30 degrees below zero.
- Parents are informed by 5:45 a.m. for morning cancellations.
Waukee Community School District
- The superintendent assesses real and “feels like” temperatures to make closure decisions.
- Feedback from local services also plays a crucial role.
West Des Moines Community School District
- Closures occur when wind chill reaches or falls below 30 degrees below zero.
- Decisions are generally made by 5:45 a.m.
As these cold temperatures hit Iowa, parents should remain alert to school announcements regarding closures or delays. Each district prioritizes student safety by considering multiple weather-related factors in their decision-making process.
