Need to know: Winter weather decisions and communications

The University is prepared to keep its campuses operational and community members informed during severe winter weather.

Winter weather will soon be upon us in the Rochester area. The University of Rochester's emergency preparedness teams are ready with the plans and tools that keep the University operational and community members informed during snowstorms or severe weather.

When thinking about a possible "snow day," it's important to know that only under extreme weather conditions do University officials consider reducing or delaying on-campus operations or canceling activities, provided that essential services can still be maintained. As a National Weather Service (NWS) StormReady University, the University is well-equipped to deal with snow and ice and, in general, remains in operation and continues with regular activities, classes, and services.

Here are key points to remember about staying informed during winter in Rochester:

• However infrequent, the decision to curtail some operations and activities will normally be made by 5:30 a.m. on the day of the expected severe weather. To make an informed decision, University experts analyze forecasts and NWS warnings overnight and throughout the day, looking at the severity of current conditions and predictions; expected duration of a storm; road conditions, both on campus and in the region; and how quickly snow and ice can be cleared from University sidewalks and parking lots. Note: according to University policy, only senior leaders can curtail, cancel, or close operations at the University.
• When a change to University operations is necessary due to the weather, AlertUR, the University's official emergency notification system, is used to make the first notice. AlertUR sends urgent messages via text, phone call, and email. To receive AlertUR messages, University community members must keep their AlertUR phone and email settings current. Students, faculty, and staff can use their Active Directory ID to update their settings online at any time.
• All essential University staff members are still expected to report to work during severe weather unless otherwise notified by a supervisor. Employees should confirm with their supervisor whether their status is essential or non-essential. All Medical Center employees-whether at Elmwood Avenue or any off-site location-are considered essential staff and are required to report even during severe weather, unless notified otherwise. If you are an employee who currently works remotely or hybrid, you should continue to do so during curtailed operations unless otherwise instructed by your manager.
• The Office of Marketing and Communications is responsible for delivering announcements to students, faculty, and staff as soon as a change to regular University operations is known. In addition to AlertUR, official weather channels include:
  • University email
  • The University homepage: rochester.edu
  • Instagram (@urochester) and Twitter (@UofR)
  • Local TV and radio news stations
  • Blackboard (students should check Blackboard for individual class cancellations as determined by an instructor)
• University Facilities works around the clock to ensure that the University is accessible and safe in the event of a major snow or weather event. However, if an individual feels it's unsafe to travel to campus, they should notify their professors or supervisor to work out the necessary arrangements for their absence or delay.