Iowa State will be holding virtual classes Tuesday as wind chills of 30 to 35 below zero threaten the area.
Students were greeted with a message Monday afternoon, reading, “Due to the forecast for dangerously cold temperatures, Iowa State University will partially close, and classes (day and evening) will meet virtually on Tuesday, Jan. 21.”
The message also read that students should check their email and Canvas for additional information from their instructors. Academic buildings will stay locked, but residence halls and dining centers will remain open.
The Cyclone men’s basketball team against Big 12-rival UCF will be played as scheduled, and Thielen Student Health Center will remain open for urgent care needs.
Other area schools have either delayed or canceled classes, including Ames Community School District.
Story County has been placed under an Extreme Cold Warning until noon Tuesday by the National Weather Service.
According to the NWS, one of the risks associated with below-zero temperatures is frostbite, or the freezing of skin and the body tissue just beneath it. Frostbite can set in as little as 30 minutes and can be deadly.
If you think you are experiencing frostbite, which can be identified by loss of feeling and paleness in the affected area, hold the area against the skin to restore warmth as soon as possible.
If you must go out, NWS recommends taking these steps to stay warm and safe:
- Avoid wearing cotton, as it takes a long time to dry
- Outer garments should be tightly woven and hooded
- Wear a hat, as 40% of your body heat can be lost from your head
- Cover your mouth
- Wear mittens
- Stay dry and out of the wind
If traveling, pack a winter survival kit that includes warm clothes, boots, blankets, a flashlight, food and water, and make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving. The NWS also recommends telling a trusted individual of your travel plans before departure as well.
Humans aren’t the only ones affected by severe winter weather – pets should also be kept inside as much as possible. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, more dogs are lost in the winter than in any other season, so be sure to keep your furry friends on a leash at all times.
For more information on the weather warning, visit here.
