As severe winter weather looms over Wisconsin, many students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison are curious about the process for canceling classes. An extreme cold watch has been issued, forecasting wind chills between 30 and 40 degrees below zero starting January 22 and continuing into January 23, 2025. This situation brings back memories of the last major cancellation in January 2019.
UW-Madison’s Class Cancellation Process
At UW-Madison, the decision to cancel classes rests solely with the chancellor or an authorized representative. Their philosophy emphasizes keeping the campus operational whenever feasible.
Factors Influencing Class Cancellation
There is no specific temperature or snowfall threshold that automatically triggers class cancellations at UW-Madison. Instead, officials consider guidelines from the National Weather Service when evaluating the conditions.
- Essential operations, such as public safety and food services, are prioritized to remain active.
- Rarely does the university fully close, even during severe weather.
Recent Cancellation History
UW-Madison last suspended classes due to extreme cold during the January 2019 polar vortex, where temperatures plummeted to -26 degrees Fahrenheit with wind chills reaching -48 degrees. The campus remained partially closed from 5 p.m. January 29 through noon January 31.
Historically, UW-Madison has rarely canceled classes. The university has documented only 11 weather-related closures over nearly the last 40 years, mostly due to heavy snowfall rather than cold. Some notable instances include:
- Jan. 28, 2014 – Canceled morning classes due to extreme cold.
- Dec. 20, 2012 – Rescheduled final exams due to heavy snow accumulation.
- Feb. 2, 2011 – Classes were canceled because of a winter storm.
- Dec. 9, 2009 – Class cancellations followed over a foot of snow.
- Dec. 3, 1990 – Canceled classes due to heavy snow and travel issues.
Conclusion
A snow day is often welcomed by students, yet the administration at UW-Madison aims to maintain a level of consistency and safety. As forecasts of extreme cold approach, students look forward to potential announcements regarding schedule changes.
