Severe Weather Policy & Procedures

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The University of Louisville monitors weather and emergency conditions continuously and makes operational decisions based on the safety of students, faculty, staff, patients, and visitors. Because conditions may differ across the region and can change rapidly, members of the university community should use personal judgment when traveling to or from campus.

University Operating Status

During severe weather or other emergency conditions, the university may adjust instructional operations and work operations separately depending on circumstances.

Instructional Status

Remote Classes

In-person classes move temporarily to remote instruction when conditions make on-campus instruction inadvisable but teaching can continue remotely. Online courses continue as scheduled. Instructors communicate instructional expectations and any assignment changes directly to students.

Class Closure

All classes — including in-person, blended and online — are canceled when conditions prevent instruction from occurring safely or effectively. Assignment due dates are suspended until further notice.

Delayed Start or Early Release

A delayed start or early release may alter class schedules for part of the day:

  • Classes ending before a delayed start time are canceled.
  • Classes already in session resume at the delayed start time.
  • Classes beginning after the delayed start meet as scheduled.

For early release:

  • Classes in session end at the announced release time.
  • Classes beginning afterward do not meet.

Work Status

Remote Work

Offices operate remotely when on-campus work is limited but university functions can continue off site. Employees who can work remotely are expected to do so under supervisor guidance.

Work Closure

Offices are closed when conditions create an immediate or severe safety concern and remote work is not broadly feasible. Only employees designated as essential should report on site or continue assigned duties remotely if directed.

Essential and Clinical Operations

University of Louisville Hospital and associated clinical operations remain open and operational unless otherwise announced. Employees, students, residents and fellows in clinical and patient care roles should follow departmental guidance.

Events and Campus Activities

On-campus events and activities may be canceled, moved online or rescheduled depending on operating conditions.

Official Notifications

Official status updates are communicated through:

If the university is operating on a normal schedule, no announcement will be issued.

Personal Safety

Members of the university community should avoid unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions and use personal judgment when local conditions differ from campus conditions.