Winter storms are common in Colorado, but weather conditions could be severe enough that Colorado State University will considering closing, canceling classes and events and suspending operations.
CSU’s priority is to remain open, when possible, in consideration of tuition already paid by students and the carry forward with the university’s mission. When the CSU closes and cancels classes and operations, it applies to all remote, hybrid and in-person classes, labs, events, meetings, etc., unless otherwise noted.
Closure announcements are shared before 5:30 a.m. but may come later depending on storm dynamics. It is possible that storm conditions would cause a midday closure. CSU will open the day following a closure unless a new closure has been announced.
Snow day? CSU closure decisions
Safety is the primary concern in making decisions about any closure. Operations would continue if it is determined students and employees can safely travel to campus. However, individual students or employees who cannot travel safely should use sound judgment and make arrangements with their instructors and supervisors for missed work or assignments.
Individual departments or colleges do not have the authority to close university operations or close buildings. Events may be canceled at the discretion of event planners. Per CSU policy, university employees with emergency duties should check with their supervisor about whether they are expected to report to work even if the University is closed.
How are students, faculty, and employees notified?
The University notifies employees and students of a closure via:
- CSU’s Safety website.
- A university-wide email sent to all employees and students.
- A university text message alert.
- CSU official social media sites and main university websites.
- Fort Collins and Denver news media.
- University closure hotline at (970) 491-7669.
What should I do if CSU campuses are open, but I cannot make it to work or class?
Individual students or employees who cannot travel safely should use sound judgment and make a choice based on their individual circumstances. Students and employees who choose not to travel to campus should make arrangements with their professors and supervisors.
If you are a student, it is your responsibility to make accommodations with all your professors and instructors to be excused from class prior to your absence.
If you are an employee, it is your responsibility to make accommodations with your supervisor. Employees who cannot safely travel to work during adverse weather and who are not authorized to work from home or who cannot work from home should use annual leave or leave without pay if annual leave is not available.
If the University is closed, can I still be on a campus?
Employees not required to report, and students who do not live on Main Campus are asked to leave and/or stay off campuses once the university is closed. This allows facilities crews to more readily clear snow from parking lots and roadways as it accumulates.
How can I report an accessibility issue or area that needs additional snow removal?
Areas of concern, including accessibility issues created by snow, should be reported to Facilities Dispatch at 970-491-0077.
