Fri Dec 05 10:20:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Sub-Zero Temperatures Threaten Central Iowa: School Districts Weigh Closure Policies

Des Moines, IA – As central Iowa braces for an arctic blast predicted to bring temperatures plummeting well below zero next week, school districts are preparing to make tough decisions about potential closures. The National Weather Service forecasts a low of -12 degrees Fahrenheit for Wednesday, December 3rd, with wind gusts increasing the potential for dangerously low wind chills. Thursday, December 4th, is expected to be even colder, with highs of 16 degrees and a wind chill of -10 degrees.

With Iowa potentially facing the coldest temperatures in the nation, parents are wondering when schools will decide to cancel classes. While some districts have clear policies, others rely on expert guidance.

Here’s a breakdown of closure policies across the Des Moines metro:

  • Ames: No set temperature, relies on NWS forecasts and expert consultation.

  • Dallas Center-Grimes: Cancels or delays when wind chill reaches -30 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Des Moines Public Schools: No set temperature, relies on NWS guidance and the district’s operations team. Factors considered are air temperature, wind chill, and the timing of cold weather.

  • Johnston: May cancel if the NWS forecasts -25 degrees Fahrenheit air temperature or -40 degrees Fahrenheit wind chill at 6 a.m.

  • Southeast Polk: No set temperature, relies on information from NWS, DOT, city and county officials, law enforcement, meteorologists, and staff inspection.

  • Urbandale: Cancels when the NWS predicts temperatures of -25 degrees Fahrenheit or a wind chill of -30 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Waukee: Superintendent will close or delay school based on predictions, timing of real and feels like temperatures and the duration of a weather advisory. Decision is usually made by 5:30 a.m. to delay the beginning of the school day or to cancel school.

  • West Des Moines: Cancels or delays when wind chill reaches -30 degrees Fahrenheit. Decision is normally made by 5:45 a.m.

Parents are advised to monitor their local school district websites and news outlets for updates as the extreme cold approaches.

By Cooper Worth, Des Moines Register

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