Northern Michigan University
Inclement Weather Policy

PURPOSE

To provide guidelines in the cancellation of classes and/or closure of the University due to inclement weather.

APPLICABILITY

All faculty, staff and students.

POLICY

Northern Michigan University is a public trust, and is committed to fulfilling all its obligations faithfully. University policy is that the Marquette campus will operate as scheduled: classes will be held, offices will be open, and services will be performed. It is recognized, however, that under certain extreme weather conditions, students and/or staff members cannot and should not attempt to come to campus; this is a decision which must ultimately be made by each individual, regardless of the reason. (See Interpretive Guidelines).

The University will cancel classes, close offices, or curtail services only under the most severe weather conditions.

In the event that it is necessary to cancel classes, close offices, or curtail services, the local media will be informed, and periodic announcements will be made on area radio and television stations. The official source of closure information at NMU is the Office of Public Safety and Police Services, 227-2151. University officials will make every effort to see that closure announcements come as early as possible, so that those who must drive to campus can make appropriate plans. Due to the uniqueness of University operations, it is quite possible that the University will remain open on days when the public schools in the area have been closed. A large number of students live on campus, and these students are dependent upon food services, the heating plant, and Public Safety, regardless of weather conditions. The University will continue to provide these essential services, and in addition, every effort will be made to keep the PEIF building open.

Since extension credit courses have several unique circumstances related to Upper Peninsula weather conditions, i.e., travel problems for NMU instructors, closure of public school facilities used for extension courses, etc., the Department of Continuing Education and Sponsored Programs will have the responsibility of canceling extension classes, when necessary, at each respective extension site, and making proper notification.

Bus transportation to and from off campus events may be provided regardless of the open/closed status of the University depending upon the weather condition en route. The go/no go decision for bus transportation provided by a charter bus company rests with the charter company and depends upon their company policy. The go/no go decision for bus transportation provided by the University will be made jointly by the bus driver, Director of Public Safety and Police Services, and the department head for the department using the service.

While traveling to or from a destination, if inclement weather conditions are encountered, the travel/not travel decision is the ultimate responsibility of the bus driver. The driver may contact Public Safety and Police Services via cell phone to receive information on weather and road conditions to aid in the decision process.

Regardless of any official action taken, or not taken, by the University, reasonable judgment should be considered regarding your own safety. (See Interpretive Guidelines.)

REFERENCES

None.

INITIATING DEPARTMENT/DIVISION

Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

For implementing instructions, please click here: Inclement Weather Procedures

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