This post summarizes Penn State’s updated winter weather guidance for the 2025–26 season. It explains what students, faculty, and staff need to know to stay safe and keep campus operations running.
It covers how the university will communicate delays and closures. It also outlines expectations for teaching and work, and practical steps the community can take when icy roads and heavy snow arrive.
What changed for the 2025–26 winter weather season?
Penn State’s Office of Physical Plant (OPP) will continue to prioritize clearing sidewalks, parking lots, and campus roads. The new guidance places extra emphasis on individual decision-making and clear communication channels.
The university reminds everyone to be cautious. Monitor official announcements rather than relying on social media or word of mouth.
Core elements of the updated guidance
Below are the key operational points that shape how Penn State will respond to winter weather this season. These summarize responsibilities, communication methods, and what to expect for classes and campus services.
Communication channels: Weather-related delays and cancellations will be announced through PSUAlert, Penn State News, campus websites, and WPSU-FM. Community members should sign up for PSUAlert if they haven’t already and check official outlets for the latest updates.
Campus access and safety: While OPP will clear pathways and roads, the university asks the community to avoid campus when possible and to remain alert for icy conditions. Travel decisions should reflect current road and sidewalk conditions and personal safety.
Expectations for classes and employees
Penn State’s guidance clarifies how different course formats and staff roles will be handled during weather disruptions. The institution emphasizes continuity for essential operations while offering flexibility where appropriate.
Teaching, work, and pay considerations
Instructional formats: Instructors may cancel in-person classes or provide asynchronous alternatives. Generally, in-person and remote synchronous classes will not be converted to live remote sessions during closures except under extenuating circumstances.
Hybrid and remote asynchronous courses will continue in their normal format or be adapted as needed.
Employee expectations: Essential employees must report to work as directed and may receive Campus Closure Compensatory Time. Nonessential employees will receive Campus Closure Pay when the campus is officially closed.
Following a delay, classes and activities that start at or after the announced reopening time will proceed as scheduled.
Early dismissals: When an early dismissal is required, students will be released first to facilitate safe travel. Faculty and staff will be released 30–45 minutes later to ease campus traffic flow.
Practical tips to stay safe and prepared
From personal travel choices to classroom contingency planning, small preparations can reduce risk and confusion during winter weather events. Below are actionable recommendations for Penn State community members.
Quick checklist
Penn State stresses that the university never fully closes.
Essential services such as dining, research, and public safety must continue.
Here is the source article for this story: Penn State reminds community of winter weather protocols for 2025-26 season