Dawson County School Superintendent Damon Gibbs on Wednesday said the system is prepared for the freezing weather moving into the area this evening.

"We will be experiencing extreme cold weather with temperatures dropping below freezing this evening and remaining there for approximately 40 hours," he said.

With lows in the teens predicted for Thursday morning, forecasters say the wind chill factor will make it seem even more blustery.

Gibbs said at this point, the school system is planning to operate under normal hours tomorrow.

"The temperature difference between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. is predicted at only 2 degrees," he said. "Therefore, a delay would not benefit our children.

"If a drastic change occurs with the weather and the plan needs to change, we will send an email and alert the media. Any change would be finalized prior to 5 a.m."

Gibbs said he has been in contact with the bus transportation department supervisor Jim Rich.

"He assures me that our bus fleet is ready to withstand these temperatures," Gibbs said.

The thermostats at the schools have also been adjusted "to better prepare our schools for the morning cold," according to Gibbs.