UW-Madison’s Process for Canceling Classes Amid Extreme Cold and Snow
As extreme cold and snowy conditions loom over Wisconsin, students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) are wondering about the potential for class cancellations. An extreme cold watch has been issued, predicting wind chills between -30 and -40 degrees beginning late on January 22 through January 23, 2025. This follows a recent snowstorm on November 29-30, 2025, which covered southeast Wisconsin in several inches of snow.
UW-Madison’s Process for Canceling Classes Amid Extreme Cold and Snow
The decision to cancel classes at UW-Madison rests solely with the chancellor or an authorized delegate. The university’s guiding principle is to remain operational whenever possible. They evaluate a variety of weather warnings, primarily from the National Weather Service, to inform their decisions.
Factors Influencing Class Cancellations
There isn’t a specific temperature threshold or snowfall amount that automatically results in class cancellations. UW-Madison spokesperson John Lucas stated that the university seldom closes completely, as many services are deemed essential. These include:
- Heating and cooling
- Public safety
- Research involving animals
- Food services
Historical Context of Campus Closures
Historically, UW-Madison has canceled classes very infrequently. The most recent complete campus closure occurred during the “polar vortex” in January 2019. At that time, temperatures plunged to -26 degrees, with wind chills feeling as low as -48 degrees. The university partially suspended operations from January 29 to January 31, making it the longest closure on record.
Since then, the university has experienced very few weather-related closures. Notable past cancellations include:
- January 28, 2014 – Morning classes were canceled due to bitter cold, but the campus remained open.
- February 2, 2011 – Classes and campus events were called off due to a winter storm.
- December 20, 2012 – Heavy snow led to the rescheduling of final exams.
- December 3, 1990 – Over 17 inches of snow prompted class cancellations.
Communicating Cancellations
The last occasion when classes were canceled was highlighted to be quite rare. In light of this, former chancellor Rebecca Blank noted that many decisions, especially regarding snow, hinge on the operation of city buses. If buses are halted, it may prompt a reassessment of campus operations.
As students keep a close watch on weather developments this winter, they should stay informed on announcements from UW-Madison regarding potential class cancellations due to the extreme cold and snow. For the latest updates, visit Filmogaz.com.
