The Metroparks will be closed Wednesday and Thursday because of what the National Weather Service calls a “very dangerous and life-threatening Arctic blast” entering the region. Entrance gates at all 16 Metroparks will remain closed both days, and all programs are canceled.

In a message to the park district’s staff, executive director Dave Zenk said, “The projected temperatures are simply too dangerous for you and our visitors.”

Rangers will still patrol the parks for safety and to check on buildings.

Side Cut Closing Today

Side Cut Metropark entrances off River Road in Maumee will close this afternoon because of river flooding due to ice dams on the Maumee River. River Road is expected to be closed shortly, cutting off access to the park entrances. The freezing temperatures followed by a warm up forecast for this weekend will pose the possibility of flooding over the next several days.