Prep Begins for Potential Winter Storms

Last winter was memorable for many, particularly those who spent hours stuck on roadways during “Snowmageddon.” 

Some weather forecasters are predicting this winter to be colder and wetter than average. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts lower than average temperatures overall for the Southeast this season. That does not necessarily equate to more frequent or stronger snowstorms, though, which are only predicted about a week in advance. 

The Office of Emergency Preparedness advises that all employees, especially commuters, be prepared for whatever weather comes their way. 

“Especially for commuters, it is critical that they put together a basic kit for their cars,” said William Smith, project manager for Emergency Preparedness. Smith advises that kits include food, water, a space blanket, gloves, hats, a flashlight, and a cellphone charger. Drivers should also keep fuel tanks at least half full.

Emergency Preparedness works closely with Facilities to plan for seasonal weather issues in advance. This year, Facilities has more ice melt on hand than last year. Its Landscape Services Department has created new brine mixing stations and will equip several utility vehicles with spray nozzles to pre-treat critical intersections, traffic areas, sidewalks, and stairs. This treatment is designed to slow the accumulation of ice and snow and make it easier to clear after accumulation has begun. Facilities also works with Parking and Transportation Services to address accessibility in parking lots and decks. 

The Utilities Maintenance group is prepared to work around the clock to ensure campus heating and steam systems remain operational.

If an ice or snow event hits, Facilities will establish a central Severe Weather Command Center to aid in communication and dispatching services and equipment around campus. 

Closing Time?

In the event of inclement weather, the Institute may issue one of several designations. “Classes canceled” means all classes and instructional laboratories will not meet. Administrative and research activities not directly tied to instruction will generally continue as normal, unless otherwise instructed by a supervisor. Other support employees may also be instructed not to report to work. “Campus closed” means no employees are to report to work aside from those previously designated as “emergency essential” by their department or otherwise instructed by a supervisor. Campus opening or activities may also be delayed until a designated later time.  

Employees can find out about campus closures and Tech’s response in several ways. The first and best source for updates is the Georgia Tech homepage: gatech.edu. Updates will be posted there as campus leadership evaluates and determines the response to each weather situation. 

Information is also shared via social media. Updates will be posted to Twitter at @gtpdalerts and @georgiatech, and on Facebook at facebook.com/gtemergency and facebook.com/georgiatech.