Jeff Hill Transforms Students into Kids When It Snows
Jefferson Hill transformed into a winter wonderland on Sunday as students enjoyed a much-anticipated snow day. The event, named “Snowday at Jeff Hill,” was organized by Ohio Snowcats, the ski and snowboarding club at Ohio University. It was publicized just a day earlier through Instagram.
Event Highlights
By the afternoon, students could be seen racing down the hill on various makeshift sleds. Creative choices included sleds, snow tubes, and even dorm mattresses. Ben Pirain, the president of Ohio Snowcats, noted how the snow’s icy and sticky conditions made steering a challenge.
- Date: Sunday noon
- Organizer: Ohio Snowcats
- Location: Jeff Hill, Ohio University
- Snow Accumulation: Nearly five inches
- Temperature Forecast: Wind chills as low as 13 degrees below zero
Cole Burton, a junior studying engineering, echoed the excitement, recalling how thrilling it was to race down the hill. “It was actually so crazy. We were flying down the hill,” he said, expressing his enjoyment of the unique experience.
Weather Conditions
The snowfall was part of Winter Storm Fern, which impacted numerous regions across the country. According to the Scalia Laboratory at Ohio University, snow was expected to continue throughout the day.
Campus Safety Measures
Ohio University Police Department arrived around noon to advise students against sledding on East Union Street, adjacent to Jeff Hill. Despite their warnings, enthusiasm ran high, with students wanting to extend the fun for as long as possible. “We’re trying to keep it open for as long as possible,” Burton said, highlighting the joy of the unexpected snow day.
The festive atmosphere at Jeff Hill continued until approximately 2 p.m., when the event was officially wrapped up, leaving students with lasting memories of a rare opportunity to enjoy the winter weather.
