As an Arctic blast and a Hard Freeze Warning continue to bring bitter cold and hazardous road conditions to North Texas, school districts are faced with the decision of whether or not to cancel classes on Tuesday. The extreme weather conditions, characterized by temperatures well below freezing and the potential for icy roads, have prompted several districts to prioritize the safety of students and staff.
Several factors have been taken into account by North Texas school districts when deciding to close on Tuesday. Mansfield ISD, for instance, cited dangerously cold temperatures, wind chills in the single digits, and the potential for ice in shaded areas and on bridges and overpasses as key considerations. Keller ISD also mentioned the impact of neighboring district closures on staffing and identified facility issues that could have affected campus operations.
Here is a list of North Texas school districts that have announced closures for Tuesday:
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Dallas ISD
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Fort Worth ISD
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Arlington ISD
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Mansfield ISD
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Keller ISD
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Irving ISD
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Mesquite ISD
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Richardson ISD
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Garland ISD
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DeSoto ISD
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Duncanville ISD
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Grand Prairie ISD
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and other districts may also announce closures as the situation develops. It is advisable to stay updated with the latest information from your respective school district.
While some districts have already made their closure announcements, others are expected to provide updates on Tuesday morning. Anna ISD, for example, has stated that a decision will be made by 5 a.m. Tuesday. It is recommended to regularly check for updates from your local school district regarding the status of classes.
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In addition to monitoring school closures, it is essential for residents of North Texas to take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period of extreme weather. Here are some winter weather preparation tips:
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Check and replace worn weatherstripping on doors and windows to maintain a good seal and keep warm air inside.
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Inspect older windows for cracked glaze and consider replacing it to prevent heat loss.
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Clear gutters to ensure proper water flow and prevent water from entering the home.
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Trim trees away from power lines, homes, and cars to avoid potential damage.
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Check insulation levels in attics to retain heat.
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Insulate outdoor faucets and consider leaving inside faucets on external walls dripping overnight to prevent freezing.
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Use exterior faucet covers made of foam to protect pipes from freezing.
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Keep faucets open if a pipe has frozen to allow water to flow when it melts.
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Familiarize yourself with the location of the main water valve in case of a burst pipe.
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Bring pets indoors to protect them from the cold, hypothermia, and pneumonia.
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Provide appropriate shelter for outdoor animals, ensuring it is dry, well-insulated, and protected from frigid temperatures.
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Bring perennial potted plants indoors to avoid damage from freezing temperatures.
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Cover delicate plants with sheets, blankets, or landscaping frost blankets to trap heat.
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Water the soil manually a day or two before a freeze to insulate the plant’s roots.
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Follow additional tips from the Dallas Arboretum and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension for plant protection during frosts and freezes.
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Turn off your irrigation system to prevent water from freezing on streets and potential damage to pipes and valves.
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Drain the main line and insulate above-ground pipes.
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Regularly change or clean air filters to ensure optimal performance.
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Check ductwork for holes that may disrupt airflow.
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Be mindful of rodents nesting in HVAC units located in attics.
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Check the pool pump daily to ensure water circulation and prevent freezing of pipes.
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Have a supply of fresh batteries for flashlights during power outages.
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Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
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Ensure your phone is charged and consider having a backup battery or power source.