Inclement Weather Information

When a decision is made to cancel classes and/or alter the University's regular schedule due to inclement weather, the Communications Office will issue a message via General Alerts and on the W&L website.

If class schedules have not been adjusted and you do not believe you can safely make it to class or work, do not come. Contact your faculty member or supervisor to explain your absence.

In addition to posting announcements on General Alerts and the University website, the Communications Office will contact the general media and inform them of the change. Media organizations to be contacted include:

  • WLUR (91.5 FM)
  • WREL/WWZW (1450 AM/96.7 FM)
  • WMRA (89.9 FM)
  • WKDW (900 AM)
  • WDBJ (CBS 7 - Channel 6 in Lexington)
  • WSLS (NBC 10 - Channel 9 in Lexington)
  • WSET (ABC 13 - Channel 12 in Lexington)

Please contact the Communications Office at x8954 if you have any questions concerning this plan.

Safety in Wintry Weather

During the heart of the winter season, weather and road conditions may be of concern especially for those who must drive to campus. This is a reminder of university policy and personal options when the weather threatens safe travel.

In case of inclement winter weather, assume that the University will remain open on schedule unless there is an official announcement to the contrary via General Alerts, email broadcast, and/or a posting on the University's main website (www.wlu.edu). More information about the delay and closing policy and official notifications may be found on this page. Please note that the University may operate on schedule even when area schools and businesses are closed or delayed. Therefore, always check website for the latest update or to verify any TV/radio cancellation announcements, because the public media announcements are sometimes erroneous.

In remaining open, the University does not advise anyone to travel who feels that he/she cannot do so safely. Commuting students, faculty and non-essential staff should exercise their best personal judgment with regard to their own local road conditions and other safety concerns. Faculty are asked to be understanding about student absence. Faculty members who cannot safely get to campus should notify the department and/or respective dean's office so that a notice can be posted in the classroom if possible. Faculty are also encouraged to e-mail their students directly if class will not be held.

Staff members should notify an immediate supervisor of a personal decision to delay arrival or be absent. Additional information regarding the University's inclement weather policy for employees, including special instructions for essential staff, are available on this site.

Finally, if your plans include automobile travel, please use extra caution at this time of year. Before you start your return drive, please check the weather and road conditions in and around Lexington using the links below.

Current Weather and Road Conditions

Lexington Weather:

Virginia Road Conditions: