Eastern Michigan University has announced it will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to severe winter weather. Heavy snow and dangerously cold wind chills prompted this decision, aimed at ensuring the safety of everyone on campus.
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect, lasting until midnight Monday. Additionally, a Cold Weather Advisory will be active from 7 p.m. January 26 until 10 a.m. January 27, with wind chills potentially reaching as low as minus 8 degrees. Scattered snow showers are expected tonight, with flurries continuing into the morning.
All classes, exams, and campus activities are canceled for the day. However, online courses will proceed as scheduled. Staff meetings, even those conducted via Zoom, will also be canceled. Designated employees working in essential roles, such as facilities management and public safety, will remain on duty.
Matthew Lige, the executive director of public safety, encourages everyone to sign up for Eagle Alerts, a messaging system that keeps the community informed about campus closures. Students and faculty can register for these alerts on the EMU website.
When the university closes for severe weather, it’s important for students and faculty to stay updated. Checking emails and the university’s main website is crucial for the latest information.
School closures can disrupt schedules and require adjustment in planning. Keeping in touch with professors and peers can help ensure that students remain informed about their coursework and any changes.
In recent years, severe winter weather has led to increased campus closures across the U.S. According to the National Weather Service, winter storms have become increasingly severe, underscoring the importance of safety measures and effective communication during these events. This trend mirrors broader climate patterns that show more unpredictable weather, a subject experts in environmental science are urging the public to take seriously.
