A significant number of school districts across Stark County have announced closures for Tuesday, January 20, as a powerful cold front brings dangerously low temperatures and wind chills to the region. Major districts including Canton City, Plain Local, and Jackson Local are among those canceling classes to ensure student safety.
The decision, confirmed by multiple school officials, comes as weather forecasts predict an overnight low of 4 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chill values plummeting to as low as minus 11. These conditions pose a significant risk to children waiting for school buses or walking to school.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple school districts in Stark County, including Canton City, Plain Local, and Massillon City, have canceled classes for Tuesday, Jan. 20.
- The closures are a direct response to a severe weather forecast predicting an overnight low of 4°F and wind chills as low as -11°F.
- Community resources, such as warming shelters in Canton, are available for residents needing refuge from the extreme cold.
- Officials are advising families to stay informed through official school channels and to take precautions against cold-weather health risks like frostbite and hypothermia.
Widespread Closures Across the County
The wave of cancellations began with an announcement from Canton City Schools Superintendent Jeff Talbert during a community event on January 19. He confirmed that the district would not hold classes on Tuesday due to the severe weather predictions.
Shortly after, other districts followed suit. Plain Local Schools sent an email to parents confirming the closure. The communication noted that while classes are canceled, the Central Office would remain open for a limited time, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Parents were advised to monitor the district's website and ParentSquare for updates on extracurricular activities and other events.
The list of closures has grown steadily and now includes a broad swath of the county's educational institutions. Public school districts canceling classes include:
- Jackson Local
- Perry Local
- Canton Local
- Lake Local
- Fairless Local
- Northwest Local
- Massillon City
- Carrollton Exempted Village
- West Branch Local
- Sebring Local
Private and specialized schools have also prioritized student safety, with Lake Center Christian, St. Joan of Arc, and St. Peter School announcing they will be closed. The R.G. Drage Career Technical Center will also not hold classes.
The Weather Behind the Decision
The decision to close schools is based on a stark weather forecast that presents clear safety challenges. The overnight low temperature is expected to reach a frigid 4 degrees Fahrenheit.
By the Numbers: A Dangerous Chill
- Overnight Low: 4°F
- Tuesday High: 17°F
- Wind Chill Values: As low as -11°F
- Wednesday High: 36°F with wind gusts up to 29 mph
Even more concerning for officials is the wind chill factor. When wind is combined with cold air, the rate of heat loss from the body accelerates. The National Weather Service warns that wind chill values dropping to minus 11 can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
While temperatures are expected to rise slightly on Wednesday, January 21, to a high of 36 degrees, conditions will remain challenging. Strong winds with gusts up to 29 mph are predicted, which will still create a significant wind chill effect, making it feel much colder than the ambient temperature.
Community Response and Safety Measures
In response to the dangerous cold, local authorities are taking steps to protect all residents, not just students. Warming shelters have been made available in Canton for both daytime and overnight use. These facilities provide a safe, warm place for individuals who may not have adequate heating, including those experiencing homelessness.
Understanding Wind Chill
The wind chill temperature is not the actual air temperature; rather, it reflects how cold the air feels on human skin. It is calculated based on air temperature and wind speed. The primary risk associated with low wind chills is an increased danger of frostbite and hypothermia, as the body loses heat much more rapidly.
Health officials are urging families to take extra precautions during this cold snap. Key recommendations include:
- Dressing in Layers: Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. An outer layer that is wind-resistant is crucial.
- Covering Exposed Skin: Hats, gloves, and scarves are essential to prevent heat loss and protect against frostbite.
- Limiting Time Outdoors: Keep outdoor activities brief. For children, this is especially important as their bodies lose heat more quickly.
- Staying Hydrated and Fed: Eating warm food and drinking warm beverages can help the body maintain its temperature.
Superintendents and school boards must weigh several factors when deciding to cancel school. The primary concern is always the safety of students, particularly those who walk or wait for buses in the early morning hours when temperatures are at their lowest. They also consider the operational status of school buses in extreme cold and the safety of teenage drivers.
"Please check plainlocal.org and ParentSquare for updates on all other events," Plain Local Schools advised in its official communication, highlighting the importance of digital channels for real-time information.
As the region braces for the arctic blast, the coordinated effort by school districts underscores a commitment to student welfare above all else. Families are encouraged to use the unexpected day off to stay warm and safe indoors.
