Winter Weather Policies and Procedures

Dear Members of the UMBC Community,

As we enter the winter season, we want to review and update UMBC’s policies and procedures regarding weather-related closures and delays. If you have not done so, please sign up for our E2Campus emergency alert text-messaging system. This is the most efficient way to receive information not only about weather closures but also in emergencies. Closures and delays will also be posted on the UMBC homepage and myUMBC.

When it becomes necessary to close the campus for inclement weather, employees designated emergency essential must report. All other employees should work remotely. Administrative leave will be authorized for employees who cannot work remotely. Online classes will occur as scheduled. Face-to-face classes will not meet in person; students will receive additional guidance from their instructors.

Campus Closure Procedure

The decision to close or delay opening the campus is determined by many factors, including the type and severity of the forecast conditions; current conditions of campus roads, parking areas, and walkways; as well as weather and related road conditions in the surrounding area. 

Please note that the decision to close campus or open late applies to the Catonsville campus only. Students, faculty, and staff at other sites are recommended to contact their location directly to receive inclement weather updates:

• Shady Grove Campus – Visit the Universities at Shady Grove campus alerts website.

• bwtech@UMBC – Email crice@umbc.edu to sign up for the bwtech@UMBC text alert system.

• Columbus Center – The Columbus Center follows University of Baltimore policies and procedures during inclement weather, due to its proximity.

If Inclement Weather Occurs

Please take a moment to review our inclement weather and emergency closing policy to understand how a delay or closure impacts campus schedules, activities, and events. You can also review UMBC's snow removal plan to learn our process and prioritization for clearing roads, parking areas, and walkways.

You should use personal judgment when traveling to and from campus. Weather and related road conditions are not the same in every area where students, faculty, and staff live. Consequently, the decision as to whether it is safe to travel must ultimately rest with each individual.

Faculty should arrange a system for communicating with their students should it be necessary to cancel class when the university is open. Employees who are scheduled to work on campus but cannot report due to local road conditions should communicate directly with their supervisor.

We hope that you and your families stay safe, healthy, and warm this winter.

Lynne Schaefer, Vice President, Finance and Administration