Cold Weather Advisory through noon Wednesday

The Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until noon today. In addition, a Cold Weather Advisory has been issued for Johnson County beginning at 6 p.m. today through noon on Wednesday, Feb. 19. 

Continue to dress in layers and use caution when traveling outside. 

Campus Operations remain normal 

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning that includes Johnson County beginning at 9 p.m. tonight and concluding at noon on Tuesday, Feb. 18. 

Wind chills may dip as low as -30 or -35 in Johnson County and other areas included in the warning. At the time of this update, Iowa City is forecast to drop as low as -28 wind chill during the warning timeframe. Information on forecasted lows and timing can be found via the NWS hourly forecast.

The University of Iowa closely monitors local updates from the National Weather Service and makes operational decisions based on the forecast and conditions specific to our area.  

At this time, campus operations remain normal. If all classes are canceled, moved to virtual instruction, and/or campus operations are reduced, the university will issue an additional Hawk Alert. Unless there is an announced operational change, the university is open and operating on a regular schedule.

More information from the NWS on this event is available here:  https://www.weather.gov/dvn/weatherstory
 

Safety Precautions 

Wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in 20 minutes or less. Frostbite and hypothermia may occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures.

• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing including a hat, face covering, and gloves 
• Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves 
• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold 
• Stay dry 
• Limit your time outdoors and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities
• Make use of campus and community transportation resources 

Stay Weather Aware 

As winter weather and cold temperatures continue, it’s important to check the weather forecast before traveling and plan accordingly to stay safe. 

You can view the most current weather information and road condition updates via:

• The National Weather Service; Download Mobile App
• 511 road conditions website; Download Mobile App

Campus Resources

• NITE RIDE: a free, late-night transportation service operated by the UI Department of Public Safety, is available to all UI students, faculty, and staff from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. NITE RIDE will maintain service during severe weather within reasonable and safe practices. During extreme weather events, NITE RIDE may need to unexpectedly modify or suspend all service. To request a ride, visit: niteride.its.uiowa.edu/request/ 
   
• HAWK VOUCHERS: USG has partnered with Campus Safety, the Division of Student Life, and the Parent and Family Council to continue the Uber Voucher pilot program for the spring semester. Eligible students can now claim FIVE $5 Uber ride Vouchers which are valid from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. daily. Visit the Hawk Vouchers page to claim yours while supplies last.
   
• CAMBUS: CAMBUS will maintain service during severe weather within reasonable and safe practices. During extreme weather events, CAMBUS may need to unexpectedly modify or suspend all service. GPS-based, real-time Cambus passenger information is available through the Transit app. It is recommended to “favorite” routes you most frequently ride so you can receive notifications of any weather-related detours or delays. 
   
• Motorist Assistance Program: UI Parking and Transportation offers free jump-start service for employees, students, and visitors parked on the main campus. Motorist assistance is offered on an as-available basis from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The service is not offered on university holidays. To request service, call 319-335-8312. Service can include battery jump starts, locating your vehicle if parked on campus, and pumping air into tires.
   
• Parking and Transportation: UI Parking and Transportation is committed to providing a safe and accessible campus during inclement weather. To learn more about policies, procedures, detours, and services, visit their winter weather information page. 

Attendance 

Whenever possible, the university continues to function during inclement weather. Employees are expected to report for work and perform their job duties. Students are expected to attend class and meet other commitments. Employees are encouraged to actively communicate with their supervisors and students are encouraged to actively communicate with their instructors regarding their specific circumstances.

Please reference the Extreme Weather Protocol in the policy manual for specific guidance.