PENNSYLVANIA — A blast of dangerously cold air is expected to settle across much of northern and central Pennsylvania late Monday, raising the possibility of school delays or closures on Tuesday due to hazardous wind chills.
According to the National Weather Service State College PA, Cold Weather Advisories will be in effect from Monday night through late Tuesday morning or early afternoon for a wide swath of the state. Wind chills are forecast to plunge as low as 18 to 20 degrees below zero in some areas, creating dangerous conditions for students waiting at bus stops or walking to school.
The advisories cover counties including Cameron, Elk, McKean, Potter, Warren, Northern and Southern Clinton, Clearfield, Cambria, Somerset, Bedford, Blair, and Centre counties. Cities and communities affected include Bradford, Warren, Ridgway, Coudersport, Renovo, Emporium, St. Marys, Clearfield, DuBois, Johnstown, Somerset, Altoona, Bedford, State College, Philipsburg, and Lock Haven.
Forecasters warn that exposed skin could develop frostbite in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions. School districts in rural and mountainous areas, where students often face longer waits for buses and colder morning temperatures, may consider delays or closures to reduce the risk of cold-related injuries.
The coldest conditions are expected overnight Monday into Tuesday morning, coinciding with the start of the school day. Parents and students are urged to monitor announcements from local school districts and prepare for potential schedule changes.
Officials advise anyone who must be outdoors to dress in layers and wear hats and gloves, and to limit time outside during the coldest periods.
