North Columbus News

The Ohio State University is preparing for expected snowfall over the coming days, urging its community to plan extra travel time as classes resume on January 6. According to the National Weather Service, snow accumulation is anticipated across Ohio from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning.

Ohio State's Columbus campus rarely cancels classes, maintaining a higher threshold for cancellation compared to K-12 schools. The decision-making process involves Ohio State’s Emergency Management and Fire Prevention, part of the Department of Public Safety (DPS), collaborating with various university units to evaluate road conditions, scheduled events, and weather impacts. A final recommendation is presented by the executive vice president and provost.

If class schedules are altered due to weather, updates for Columbus campus operations will be communicated via the Buckeye Alert system. Regional campuses will receive information through their leadership.

The Office of Academic Affairs (OAA) advises instructors to be flexible in light of potential winter weather disruptions. Instructors are encouraged to discuss class continuity plans with students at the semester's start. If in-person classes are canceled before the first meeting, asynchronous activities may be utilized where possible. Online or distance-learning classes will proceed unless stated otherwise.

Travelers should expect slow commutes if in-person classes occur as planned. The university asks instructors and managers to accommodate those affected by snowfall, especially during early hours. Students missing class due to weather must account for any missed material or assignments.

Safety remains a priority at Ohio State, with Facilities Operations and Development (FOD), CampusParc, Transportation and Traffic Management (TTM), and DPS working together to maintain safety during winter months. FOD teams treat roadways and sidewalks continuously as snow accumulates, while CampusParc manages parking lots and garages.

TTM provides curb-to-curb paratransit service for individuals with disabilities within university boundaries. All TTM transit vehicles are ADA-accessible. Real-time CABS tracking is available through the Ohio State app.

For potentially unsafe conditions due to ice or snow on campus, individuals should report them rather than attempt resolution themselves. Off-campus areas fall under city responsibility.

Winter travel tips include knowing routes, driving slowly, keeping vehicle windows clear of ice and snow, maintaining full gas tanks, dressing warmly in layers, and preparing an emergency kit for vehicles.

Additional resources include a real-time online weather forecast from DPS and further safety tips on the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness website.