With the start of a new semester, we want to once again provide reminders for inclement weather and resulting changes to campus operations and the class schedule.
Starting this spring 2026 semester, classes may be offered in alternative modalities during an inclement weather closure or change in operations.
During an inclement weather closure, class meetings shall not be held in-person. Faculty have the discretion to switch to another modality or assignment, including holding class virtually. If virtual instruction involves a synchronous element, the meeting time must be during the normal class meeting time. Faculty are responsible for informing students of their intention. However, students should not be penalized if they are unable to attend or complete assignments virtually during the inclement weather period.
The status for public events will be communicated with the change in operations during inclement weather.
We will continue to make every effort to post an inclement weather announcement by 6 a.m. on the day of closing or delayed opening. A decision about evening class changes will be made by 3 p.m. on the day in question if possible.
Announcements are shared via UMW email and on the UMW website. You should check these communication channels as your first source of information, as updates to external sites, social media and traditional media are secondary and may be delayed. Severe storm updates will come from the National Weather Service via text messages in UMW Alerts, but you’ll need to check email for changes to class schedules and campus operations. Updates to weather advisories are shared on the UMW website.
In addition, some campus services remain open and accessible to students during winter weather, but may modify hours or services depending on the situation. UMW Police and Public Safety remains open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Please check the following for updates:
- UMW Dining on Facebook or join the UMWFoodies by texting 82257.
- Campus Recreation with updates posted to Instagram
- Hurley Convergence Center (HCC)
Snow emergency parking regulations may also be implemented. In most cases, these regulations go into effect when there is a threat of snow, sleet, hail, freezing rain, or ice and begin at 10 p.m. preceding forecasted inclement weather or as otherwise announced. Note that if parking access is closed due to an icy hill, such as road to the Alvey Deck, there is access via Sunken Road.
Students and employees should assess the weather conditions in your location. If campus continues normal operations, but you are impacted by weather and road conditions in your area, please contact your instructors and supervisors with any changes to your schedule and to make arrangements for missed classes or work.
During inclement weather that impacts campus and results in a change to campus operations, employees who can work from home (telework) should do so.
Those unable to work remotely should contact your supervisor for options:
Supervisors will add Emergency Closing Leave, as necessary, to timecards of non-essential fulltime and quasi-fulltime employees who are not able to telework.
- If an employee has the means to telework but chooses not to, another leave type must be requested. (For more information on leave, supervisors should check the MyTime Supervisor Manual.)
- Employees who are designated as essential and required to work on campus during authorized closings are paid their regular rate of pay for hours worked and granted compensatory leave for the hours worked. For some inclement weather events, Facilities Services Alternate Shift Pay Policy E.1.3 may be in effect for employees engaged in snow/ice removal working outside their normal schedule.
- Please check with your supervisor if you are unsure of your designated employee status. Supervisors are reminded to communicate with employees regarding expectations during changes to campus operations for inclement weather.
Welcome back for the spring semester, and thank you for preparing for possible winter weather by staying informed.
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