Palatine students could face a frozen start to Friday, with AccuWeather currently predicting wind chills as low as 36 degrees below zero at 7 a.m. That has raised the possibility of school closures.

Under district policy, schools are closed during an extreme cold warning, which is issued when wind chills reach minus 30 degrees or lower. While closures are not yet confirmed, officials say that if the forecast holds, Friday is likely to be a school closure day. All extracurricular activities would also be suspended. Families should monitor official district notifications for updates on closures and schedule changes.

The Illinois Department of Public Health warns that extreme cold can cause serious health problems, including hypothermia and frostbite. Residents are advised to limit time outdoors whenever possible, dress in several layers, cover exposed skin, and stay dry and hydrated. Infants, older adults, and people with medical conditions are especially at risk and should receive extra attention during periods of extreme cold.

Even short exposure to wind chills this low can be dangerous. Students who must travel outdoors are encouraged to take precautions and make sure to check on friends, relatives, or neighbors who may be vulnerable to the cold.

For the latest information on closures and additional tips for staying safe in extreme cold, visit the district website or Ready.Illinois.gov.