Michigan Tech administration announced a total closure of the University taking place on Friday, Jan. 23, citing severe weather conditions as reason for the cancellation of classes that day. In addition, the closure of several other University facilities and services was announced, including the SDC, shuttle services, and the Mont Ripley ski area. While the University has closed for partial days in recent years, a schoolwide shutdown has not been practiced since 2019.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recorded temperatures exceeding nine degrees below zero with persistent wind that would ultimately bring such cold that frostbite could be expected on exposed skin in less than ten minutes. With the concern of safety risks for students travelling to class, it was decided that a closure of MTU would be appropriate.
In extreme cold weather, it is recommended that all exposed skin be covered, dressing in layers, and that particularly frostbite susceptible areas such as the nose and ears be especially protected; minimize outdoor time and take frequent warm-up breaks in a heated building or vehicle.
