With meteorologists predicting colder and wetter-than-average conditions in the Pacific Northwest this winter, it’s a good time for Huskies to check out what the UW does when there’s snow and ice.
If there’s snow in the forecast, how can I find out if there’s any change to UW classes or in-person work?
If UW, UW Bothell or UW Tacoma decide to change operations due to the weather, we’ll share the news via email (a UW Advisory message) to students and employees at the affected campus. We’ll send, also, a UW Alert text message (pro tip: sign up now). Info will be posted on the website (check the website for your campus) and on social media.
For Seattle, students and employees can call the UW Information Lines at 206-UWS-INFO (206-897-4636) or toll-free 1-866-897-4636. For UW Bothell, call 425-352-3333.
If there’s no message posted, your campus is operating on a regular schedule.
A change in operations could include later start times, closing offices early, cancelling events or switching to virtual operations (which means no in-person classes or services; remote learning and work if possible). For students, check with your instructors about whether you’ll have class online.
During suspended or virtual operations, employees who aren’t essential staff (ask your supervisor if you’re unsure), are encouraged to work remotely. Those who can’t should follow the UW Suspended Operations Policy.
How does UW make the decision to start late, dismiss early or suspend operations?
UW has a Weather Status Assessment group, which includes representatives from operational and academic units across the three campuses. UW Emergency Management feeds weather updates to that group and convenes the group if it looks like the weather might impact mobility and operations. In addition, UW Bothell and UW Tacoma have teams to assess the conditions on each campus given differences in regional microclimates and campus geography.
UW in Seattle, UW Bothell and UW Tacoma consider current weather conditions and reliable forecasts, whether public transit is operating, current and predicted road conditions, K-12 school operations and whether UW Facilities crews have the tools and people to keep pathways and roadways on campuses safe. The team from each campus makes recommendations for hybrid, virtual or suspended operations to the President and Chancellors.
In the event of snow, ice, high winds or other dangerous conditions, a decision will usually be made no later than 6 a.m. about any change in operations.
Getting to campus
If it’s snowy out, be prepared for changes to your commute. If you ride the bus, check King County Metro, Community Transit or Pierce Transit for updates and snow routes.
Link light rail and Sounder trains typically operate regular service during cold weather, but some emergencies, such as mudslides, can cancel service. If you take one of the UW shuttles, check Transportation Services or Shuttle alerts for changes to routes and schedule times.
If you drive to campus, be aware that certain levels of parking lots or garages may close for safety reasons. Refer to onsite signage for lot closure instructions and relocation directions. Transportation Services will list closures and re-routes for Seattle. Conditions can change quickly, however, so always use your best judgment as well.
Plan ahead
UW Environmental Health & Safety has great tips to prevent slips, trips and falls, including wearing layers, giving yourself extra time to get to your destination and avoiding distractions while walking (put your cell phone in your coat pocket).
If you’re headed to the UW campus in Seattle, check the UW Facilities snow removal map for real-time information about roads and walkways during a snow event.
What if I can’t make it to campus?
Conditions may be different at your home than they are on campus. If it’s not safe for you to get to campus, students should contact instructors as soon as possible.
Employees should contact their supervisor if they’re unable to come to work. Learn more about inclement weather, including leave use and compensation, at the UW Human Resources website.
If heavy and extended snow is in the forecast, units should check their department’s business interruption and continuity plan and talk with supervisors. UW’s Center for Teaching & Learning also has excellent recommendations for teaching during campus disruptions.
Stay warm, stay dry and have a safe winter!