January 24, 2025/Midnight

Erie, Pa.-– Snow, ice, and biting cold, oh my! After the heavy snow during Thanksgiving break most of the community of Gannon was under the assumption that a few feet of snow would be the only winter weather worry this year, but it seems that Jack Frost had other plans.

Winter storm warnings, snow advisories, and frigid temperatures have all been issued within the last couple of months. The National Weather Service has issued a cold weather advisory with temperatures expected to drop near zero with windchills bringing it into the negative.

Classes were expected to resume as scheduled after the holiday on Monday, but information has been sent out on how to keep a certain someone from nipping at your nose.

According to Gannon University, students should prepare for the harsh temperatures and stay safe with unexpected drops in temperatures. Students had been encouraged to dress in layers such as moisture–wicking base layers, insulation layers, and finally a windproof waterproof outer layer. Extremities should be covered with gloves, hats, and scarves to prevent frostbite. Warm socks and insulated boots were encouraged as well.

Avoiding prolonged exposure to the cold has also been recommended by limiting outdoor time and taking breaks in warm areas. Gannon also noted that students should be on the lookout for frostbite and hypothermia by looking out for pale, numb skin, tingling or a burning sensation for frostbite and to look for shivering, confusion, and slurred speech as signs of hypothermia and to get inside and warm up if any of these were to occur.

Gannon also provided ways to keep vehicles safe on campus. Including what to keep in your car for emergencies such as blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, extra batteries, and a first aid kit. It was also recommended to have a small shovel, windshield washer fluid, and an ice scraper. It was recommended to keep gas tanks filled to prevent any fuel lines from freezing.

Vulnerable neighbors and friends were included in the outreach by encouraging those able to do so to help those in need who could be potentially more vulnerable to the cold conditions.

It was also recommended to drink warm beverages such as tea, coffee, or hot water. Warm foods were encouraged to help raise low body temperatures and to keep energy levels up.

Stay warm Knights!