At a Glance
- Wind chills could drop below zero early Tuesday
- National Weather Service cold advisory runs 2 a.m.-10 a.m. Jan. 19
- Multiple districts will open late Jan. 20
- Why it matters: Extra morning travel time and child-care plans may be needed
A bitter Arctic blast sweeping the region has forced school officials to postpone Tuesday start times, with wind-chill values threatening sub-zero readings that pose safety risks for students waiting at bus stops.
News Of Philadelphia first reported the developing situation Monday afternoon after the National Weather Service issued a cold-weather advisory covering the overnight and early-morning hours.
Advisory Details
The National Weather Service alert takes effect at 2 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19 and remains in place until 10 a.m. Forecasters warned that actual air temperatures in the single digits, combined with northwest winds gusting near 25 mph, will drive feels-like readings below zero for much of the area.
Such conditions can cause frostbite on exposed skin in under 30 minutes, prompting school districts to re-evaluate normal schedules.
Districts React
Administrators began announcing delays Monday evening, citing student and staff safety. While Sarah L. Montgomery‘s initial report did not list every system, officials confirmed that:
- Buses will run on delayed pick-up cycles
- Morning activities, including athletic practices and breakfast programs, are canceled
- Parents will receive updated transportation times via district messaging apps
Families can find the complete roster of delays for Tuesday, Jan. 20 by clicking the link embedded in the original alert.
How to Report Changes
School leaders who decide overnight to switch from a delay to a full closure, or who need to update previously posted information, should use the state’s emergency-notification portal referenced in the News Of Philadelphia story.
The portal pushes alerts to local media, transportation departments, and parent-notification systems, ensuring families see changes as soon as they are approved.
Cold Safety Reminders
Even with later bell times, health officials stress layered clothing, hats, and gloves for anyone heading outside. Wind chills can drop quickly before sunrise, and pavement treatments lose effectiveness below about 15°F, increasing the chance of black ice on sidewalks and secondary roads.
Drivers should allow extra stopping distance and watch for students walking on road shoulders where sidewalks may be snow-covered.
Key Takeaways
- Expect a Jan. 19 overnight low near 5°F with sub-zero wind chills
- School schedules shift later Jan. 20; check your district’s website
- Use the linked directory for real-time closure updates
- Dress in layers and limit outdoor exposure during the advisory window
