In a message sent out through the UGA Alert system Thursday night, the University of Georgia urged students to return home, if they are able to, after their classes Friday.
A potent winter storm is approaching Athens this weekend, bringing a mix of rain, sleet, hail and/or snow. There is a very strong possibility of substantial ice accumulation, along with high winds and temperatures well below freezing. As a result, it has been advised to prepare for hazardous driving conditions and possible widespread power outages.
While university housing will remain open, power outages, water line breaks or other complications from the storm could force UGA to consolidate students who remain on campus into limited temporary accommodations. Therefore, out of an abundance of caution, the university advised students to return home if possible.
Dining Halls will remain open and Campus Transit will continue to provide regular service, weather permitting.
While an official call has not yet been made, the alert message stated that UGA will likely close on Monday, January 26. They are continuing to monitor the situation and will provide further updates early Sunday afternoon.
The message, additionally sent through email this morning, also encouraged community members to verify their emergency contact information to make sure they are receiving these emergency updates.
The full text of the alert can be found on the UGA Today website.