In response to the record-low temperatures and wind chill forecast this week, Gov. Tony Evers signed his fifth executive order on Monday, calling for a state of emergency in all of Wisconsin.
Due to the life-threatening temperatures and extreme snowfall, Evers informed the public about the potential dangers of spending too much time outside. The executive order was put in place to prepare the state to take necessary precautions.
"I’m concerned about the safety and well-being of our residents as this major storm and bitter cold moves in," Evers said. "I want to make sure all state assets are available, including the Wisconsin National Guard if needed, to help communities across the state and keep people warm and safe."
Madison Mayor Paul Soglin also confronted the upcoming weather forecast by warning residents that the city’s services will not be fully functional due to excessive snow and cold. Due to the temperatures, salting road will not be effective causing extra hauling, and trash collection has been suspended. However, Solgin assured the public that emergency services, snow removal and the bus system will remain operational.
Regardless of Ever’s executive order and Solgin’s forewarning, UW-Madison does not currently plan on cancelling classes unless absolutely necessary. However, other UW System schools closed Monday, including UW-Milwaukee, and all of Madison Metropolitan School District.
According to Meredith McGlone, UW-Madison’s news and media director, the university does not have an official policy specifying a temperature at which classes must be cancelled. However, McGlone clarified the faculty’s authoritative discretion in cancelling class meetings if they feel it is necessary.
“Faculty who make individual decisions to cancel class meetings are asked to notify students and department offices of any class cancellations and plans to reschedule,” said McGlone.
The university will continue to monitor forecasts and update students and staff about the weather conditions. They will announce the status of class cancellations closer to the date.
Via social media, mass emails and other local news outlets, the university has made an effort to prepare students for the dropping temperatures by offering tips for students going to class. McGlone highlighted the importance of wearing appropriate gear and utilizing the Madison Metro Buses in order to minimize time spent outside.
