In response to an ice storm warning issued by the National Weather Service for the Portland metro area and much of the Willamette Valley, multiple school districts in Oregon have announced closures for Tuesday, January 16th. The closures come as some schools in the area are grappling with frozen or broken pipes following a deep freeze over the holiday weekend.

As of Monday afternoon, several districts had already made the decision to close their schools and offices for the day. The Hillsboro School District, North Clackamas School District, Tigard-Tualatin School District, Banks School District, Forest Grove School District, Molalla River School District, Oregon City School District, Estacada School District, Corbett School District, Neah-Kah-Nie School District, Oregon Episcopal School, St. Mary's Academy, Central Catholic High School, Jesuit High School, Christ the King Parish School, Portland Jewish Academy, St. Thomas More Catholic, La Salle Catholic College Prep., St. Agatha Catholic School, West Hills Montessori, Gaston School District, Tillamook School District, Skamania School District 2, Canby School District, Colton School District, Sweet Home School District, North Santiam School District (Stayton), Scappoose School District, St. Helens School District, North Marion School District, Woodburn School District, Clatskanie School District, Sheridan School District, Yamhill Carlton School District, McMinnville School District, Rainier School District, Vernonia School District, Cascade School District, Central 13j School District, Gervais School District, Silver Falls School District, Sherwood School District, and Northwest Regional ESD have all announced closures due to the forecasted ice storm.

The closures extend beyond just schools, with universities and colleges also affected. Portland State University, Portland Community College, and Pacific University have all announced closures for Tuesday, January 16th. Portland State University will be closed entirely, while Portland Community College has canceled all remote and in-person classes, operations, and services. Pacific University's Forest Grove and Hillsboro campuses, as well as all healthcare clinics, will be closed until noon on Wednesday, January 17th.

The decision to close schools and other educational institutions is aimed at ensuring the safety of students, staff, and faculty members amidst potentially hazardous weather conditions. With freezing rain and snow expected in the forecast, transportation and road conditions could become treacherous.

As the situation unfolds, it is advisable for residents in the affected areas to stay updated on further developments, including potential delays or additional closures.