Campus Alert: Batten Down the Hatches for the Arctic Blast!
In a rare move, the University of Wisconsin–Madison is putting academics on ice, canceling all classes on Friday, January 23rd, due to the impending deep freeze.
But it's not just any cold snap. An Extreme Cold Warning has been issued for Dane County, with wind chills plunging to a bone-chilling -30 to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. This decision affects all class formats, from lectures to labs, and will undoubtedly impact the daily routines of students and faculty alike.
However, the campus isn't going into full hibernation mode. While classes are off the table, all other operations will proceed as usual. Employees are expected at their posts, and campus buildings will remain accessible during regular hours. UW Athletics is also gearing up for a full schedule, with Men's and Women's Hockey matches still on the cards.
Student Survival Guide:
- Bundle up! If you must venture outdoors, layer up with warm clothing, scarves, hats, and gloves. Frostbite is no joke, so limit your exposure and stay informed about the risks.
- Public transport is your friend. Madison Metro will be running, so check schedules and plan your journeys accordingly.
Employee Essentials:
- Stay informed. Review the Inclement Weather Policies or consult your supervisor for guidance.
- Parking made easy. Parking permits won't be required in select campus and off-campus lots, making commuting a breeze. But remember, restricted areas remain off-limits.
- Only the chancellor can call the shots. They hold the authority to suspend further services or close buildings if necessary.
Stay in the Know:
- Local forecasts: Keep an eye on the local weather forecasts to track the cold's progress.
- Transportation updates: The Madison Metro website and 511 Wisconsin are your go-to sources for transportation-related info.
- Winter travel tips: UW Transportation Services has your back with advice on navigating winter weather conditions.
And there you have it! A day off from classes, but business as usual otherwise. Stay warm, Badgers, and remember, the cold never bothered us anyway... or did it? Share your thoughts on this chilly development in the comments below!
