Michigan Tech administration announced a complete closure of the university at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18. This closure was due to deteriorating road conditions as a result of rapid heavy snow accumulation. All of Michigan Tech was closed for the rest of the day, including all offices, labs, and both physical and virtual classes. Multiple MTU facilities closed as well, including the Rosza Center, the SDC, and Mont Ripley. Career Fair interviews were also cancelled, and Career Services worked with employers to make alternative interview arrangements.
The Husky Campus and Hancock Commuter Shuttles were initially delayed for two hours due to weather conditions at 8 a.m. At 10 a.m. all campus shuttle services were suspended for the rest of the day as a result of severe weather and unsafe driving conditions, leaving many students unable to reach campus.
This closure marks the second campus-wide closure of MTU during this Spring semester. Vice President for University Relations and Enrollment, John Lehman, stated, “Decisions regarding campus closures are made in consultation with Public Safety and Police Services and are informed by guidance and data from the National Weather Service, local road commissions, and other regional partners.” Regarding this closure, Lehman explained, “The decision to close on Wednesday was based on updated weather projections and road condition reports indicating deteriorating travel conditions.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced a winter storm warning lasting from Feb. 18 to Feb. 20. NOAA reported a total of 11.6 inches of new snow over that time period, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 33 degrees. This combination of extreme snowfall with warm temperatures resulted in excessive buildup of dense, slippery snow that made travel difficult.
During extreme snowfall, it is advised to avoid travel unless necessary. If travel is necessary, keep an extra flashlight, food, water, and extra clothing in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Ensure mobile devices are fully charged or a backup power source is on hand, maintain adequate fuel levels, and notify a trusted contact of planned route and expected arrival time. Motorists should reduce speed, increase following distance, and allow snowplows sufficient space to operate safely.
Students are encouraged to sign up for the school’s emergency alerts by visiting mtu.edu/emergencycontacts/safety-first/.
