University prepares for winter storm

The UW–Madison campus was preparing for the first major winter storm of the season with ice, sleet and snow expected beginning later today, Monday, Dec. 8 and heavy snow throughout the day Tuesday, Dec. 9.

Forecasts are calling for sleet and snow beginning this afternoon, and a total accumulation of 6-10 inches before Tuesday night. Faculty, staff and students are urged to use caution.

UW-Madison is open for business and classes are expected to be held Monday evening and Tuesday as scheduled. Updates will be posted on the university’s home page.

A Snow Action Day has been called for Tuesday, Dec. 9. Motorists are encouraged to park in cleared parking areas, where possible. Action Days will allow crews to clear snow more effectively by prioritizing streets, parking areas and sidewalks. Please note, a Snow Action Day is an advisory and a call to action, and does not mean that classes are cancelled or the university has been closed. Any changes to campus operations will be announced on TV, radio, the news page and university home page.

Ahead of the storm, students, faculty and staff should review of the following snow-related policies:

• Students who feel it is unsafe to travel to campus should contact their professors or teaching assistants about making up missed class time. Professors and teaching assistants are asked to be flexible in dealing with student requests.
• Employees are advised to use their own discretion regarding their health and safety and that of their family members, but they are required to use accrued holiday, vacation or compensation time to cover any absences. Supervisors are advised to be flexible in their approval of employee-requested leave in inclement weather situations.