Cleveland's Big Freeze: What's the Deal with These Extreme Temps?

Cleveland is no stranger to cold weather, but this week's temperatures are pushing the limits. The National Weather Service (NWS) says the city can expect a high of 16 degrees on Tuesday, with lows around 9 degrees. But that's not even the worst of it. Wind chills are expected to drop between -15 and -20 degrees, making it feel like you're living in a freezer. Schools in the area have already started to feel the chill, with several districts closing their doors on Tuesday. And it's not just the kids who are affected. Pets and homeowners have to take extra precautions to stay safe in these extreme conditions. Later this week, things are expected to get even colder, with temperatures potentially dropping as low as -4 degrees on Friday night. That might not sound like a big deal, but it's important to remember that Cleveland hasn't seen temperatures this low since last year.In fact, the last time the city saw sub-zero temperatures was in late January of last year. And while it might not be the coldest day on record - that honor goes to January 19, 1994, when temperatures dropped to a bone-chilling -20 degrees - it's still a significant drop from the usual winter weather. So, what can you do to stay safe in these extreme temperatures? The American Red Cross recommends opening cabinet doors underneath the sink in your kitchen and bathroom to help warmer air circulate around the plumbing and prevent freezing and bursting pipes. And if you have pets, make sure to take extra precautions to keep them warm and safe. But why is it so cold? Well, that's a question for the meteorologists. One thing is for sure, though: Clevelanders are no strangers to extreme weather, and they know how to bundle up and stay safe.