The University of Massachusetts Amherst, a public research university located in Amherst, Massachusetts, has a comprehensive system in place for announcing campus closures or delayed openings due to inclement weather or other emergencies. The university's administration prioritizes the safety of its students, faculty, and staff, and therefore, takes a proactive approach to communicating any disruptions to normal campus operations.
Notification Systems
The university utilizes a multi-channel approach to notify the campus community about closures or delayed openings. This includes the UMass Amherst website, social media platforms, email notifications, and the UMass Amherst Alert system. The UMass Amherst Alert system is a critical component of the university’s emergency notification protocol, allowing administrators to quickly disseminate vital information to students, faculty, and staff in the event of an emergency or campus closure.
Closure Criteria
The decision to close or delay the opening of the campus is typically made by the university’s Chancellor, in consultation with other senior administrators, campus safety officials, and local weather authorities. The criteria for closure or delayed opening include, but are not limited to, severe weather conditions such as heavy snowfall, freezing rain, or extreme temperatures, as well as other emergencies that may pose a risk to the safety of the campus community. The university’s Emergency Operations Plan outlines the specific procedures and protocols for responding to various types of emergencies, including those that may necessitate a campus closure.
| Notification Channel | Description |
|---|---|
| UMass Amherst Website | Official website will display a banner with closure or delayed opening information |
| UMass Amherst Alert System | Emergency notification system that sends emails, text messages, and voice messages to subscribers |
| Social Media | Official social media accounts will post updates on campus closures or delayed openings |
| Email Notifications | Targeted email notifications will be sent to students, faculty, and staff |
Closure Procedures
In the event of a campus closure, all academic and administrative activities will be suspended, unless otherwise specified. This includes classes, research activities, and university-sponsored events. Essential personnel, such as facilities and campus safety staff, will be required to report to work as scheduled, unless otherwise instructed by their supervisors. The university will provide guidance on remote work arrangements for non-essential personnel, where feasible.
Impact on Campus Services
Campus closures may affect various university services, including dining, transportation, and recreational facilities. The university will provide information on the status of these services through its notification channels. In some cases, certain services may remain available, albeit with reduced hours or capacity.
- Dining services may operate on a reduced schedule or offer limited menu options
- Transportation services, such as the PVTA bus system, may experience disruptions or operate on a reduced schedule
- Recreational facilities, such as the Recreation Center, may be closed or operate on a reduced schedule
How will I be notified of a campus closure or delayed opening?
+You will be notified through the university's notification channels, including the UMass Amherst website, social media, email, and the UMass Amherst Alert system.
What happens to my classes during a campus closure?
+All academic activities, including classes, will be suspended during a campus closure, unless otherwise specified by the instructor or department.
Can I still access campus facilities during a closure?
+Access to campus facilities may be restricted during a closure, unless you are an essential personnel or have been granted permission by the university administration.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is committed to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment for its students, faculty, and staff. By staying informed about campus closures and delayed openings, members of the campus community can take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being during periods of inclement weather or other emergencies.
