The University of Massachusetts Amherst, like many institutions, has a set of policies and procedures in place to determine whether to declare a snow day, also known as a weather-related closure. As of the 2025 academic calendar, the decision to cancel classes or close the campus due to inclement weather is made by the university's administration, taking into account various factors. These factors include the severity of the weather conditions, the impact on student and staff safety, and the potential disruption to academic and extracurricular activities.
Snow Day Declaration Process
The process of declaring a snow day at UMass Amherst involves a collaborative effort between the university’s administration, facilities management, and public safety departments. The decision to cancel classes or close the campus is typically made in the early morning hours, before the start of the academic day. The university’s administration closely monitors weather forecasts and conditions, as well as road and parking lot conditions, to determine the safety of the campus and surrounding areas.
Key Factors in Snow Day Determination
Several key factors are taken into consideration when determining whether to declare a snow day. These include:
- Weather Severity: The intensity and duration of the snowfall, as well as the potential for freezing rain, sleet, or other hazardous weather conditions.
- Campus Safety: The condition of roads, parking lots, and walkways on campus, as well as the availability of snow removal equipment and personnel.
- Student and Staff Safety: The potential risk to students and staff who may need to commute to or from campus, as well as those who may be required to work on campus during inclement weather.
- Academic and Extracurricular Activities: The impact of a snow day on academic schedules, exams, and other important events, as well as the potential disruption to extracurricular activities and sports events.
| Snow Day Criteria | Thresholds |
|---|---|
| Snowfall Accumulation | 6-8 inches in a 24-hour period |
| Freezing Rain or Sleet | 0.1 inches of ice accumulation |
| Wind Chill | -20°F or lower |
| Road Conditions | Hazardous or impassable roads on campus or surrounding areas |
Communication and Notification
In the event of a snow day, the university will typically communicate the decision to students, staff, and faculty through a variety of channels, including:
- UMass Amherst Website: The university’s website will be updated with information on campus closures and class cancellations.
- UMass Amherst Alert System: The university’s emergency alert system will send notifications to students, staff, and faculty via email, text message, or mobile app.
- Social Media: The university’s social media accounts will be updated with information on campus closures and class cancellations.
Snow Day Policies and Procedures
The university’s snow day policies and procedures are outlined in the UMass Amherst Academic Calendar and the University’s Emergency Management Plan. These policies and procedures provide guidance on the decision-making process, communication protocols, and operational procedures during inclement weather events.
How will I be notified if the university declares a snow day?
+The university will communicate the decision to declare a snow day through a variety of channels, including the UMass Amherst website, the UMass Amherst Alert System, and social media.
What factors are considered when determining whether to declare a snow day?
+The university considers several factors, including the severity of the weather conditions, the impact on student and staff safety, and the potential disruption to academic and extracurricular activities.
In conclusion, the decision to declare a snow day at UMass Amherst is a complex process that involves careful consideration of various factors. By understanding the university’s snow day policies and procedures, students, staff, and faculty can better prepare for inclement weather events and stay safe during the winter months.
