Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, Cedar Falls and Many More CLOSED on 1/26

The cold weather has kicked into high gear in eastern Iowa creating dangerously cold temps that could cause frostbite, and be dangerous to children waiting outside for a bus, or who have to walk to school. With a wind chill advisory in effect, until 9 am on January, 26, many schools announced this evening they will not be open on Wednesday.

Many larger area schools are closed

Among the schools closed on Wednesday include the districts of Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Independence, Iowa City, and Union Community School District. A plethora of other schools has announced a 2-hour late start. Cedar Falls has confirmed the day will be made up at the end of the year. As of now, Oelwein is delayed 2-hours.

Thus far, many other school districts have announced, at the least, a 2-hour delay. We will provide an updated closings and delays list on Wednesday.

The concern about frostbite

While no two people are exactly the same, once temps sneak into sub-zero territory, it only takes around 30 minutes for exposed skin to get frostbite. At colder than 25 below with some wind, which we will experience in the morning hours, frostbite is possible within only 15 minutes.

The National Weather Service warns exposed body tissue is the most likely to get frostbite, but it's still possible even without exposed skin. It's highly recommended if you plan to be outside to wear mittens or gloves and a hat, as half of our body heat is lost if it is not covered. With temps as low as they'll be early Wednesday, spending any extended period of time outside is not recomended.

NOAA