Winter storm closes campus for eleven days after water-system damage

With the increasing likelihood of an impactful winter storm affecting Knoxville and the region on Saturday, January 24, and Sunday, January 25, followed by very cold temperatures, we are providing preliminary guidance to help the campus community prepare should the effects of the storm extend into next week. In the event of a closure or delay because of weather, the university will notify the campus community via UT Alert and official UT social media accounts. The university’s inclement weather procedure can also be found on the public safety website. Campus Operations and Student Services - Residence halls will remain open for students housed on campus. Students who need assistance may visit their residence hall front desk or contact their Resident Assistant (RA). - TRECS will operate on an abbreviated schedule on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Please visit recsports.utk.edu for the most up-to-date hours. - Rocky Top Dining Hall, Stokley Dining Hall, residence P.O.D. markets, Cumberland Food Hall, and Chick-fil-A on Cumberland Avenue will remain open. - The Student Union will be closed for non-dining activities over the weekend. Student Union Vol Dining locations in the food court, Starbucks, VolBooks, and VolSnacks will have limited hours. - For current dining locations and hours, visit dining.utk.edu or follow @VolDining on Instagram and Facebook. Academic and Work Continuity - Faculty should prepare for the possibility of teaching classes virtually if needed. - Employees who are able to work remotely should take home any necessary computer equipment and materials. Remote, hybrid, and essential employees should coordinate plans with their supervisor. Employees unsure of their essential status should contact their supervisor for clarification. Parking and Transportation - Students and employees are asked to remove vehicles from the top floor of parking garages and from surface lots Friday, January 23, to allow for more effective snow removal if needed. - Non-commuters are also encouraged to move vehicles into parking garages on Friday, January 23. Weather Conditions and Updates - The forecast continues to evolve. As of this morning, the National Weather Service reports low confidence regarding precipitation types (snow, sleet, freezing rain, or rain) and potential accumulations. - In the event of a closure or delay due to weather, the university will notify the campus community through UT Alert and official UT social media accounts, as well as here on this page. - University of Tennessee Police Department will post updates on their social media platforms as well. (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) We will continue to monitor conditions closely and will share additional information as the situation develops. Stay safe and thank you for your flexibility and preparedness.