Kalamazoo Times

Western Michigan University has issued a reminder to its campus community about the institution’s winter closure policy as the 2025-26 season approaches. The university emphasizes that despite frequent snow and ice in Michigan, full closures and class delays are uncommon. Official notifications regarding closures will be communicated through the WMU homepage, the WMU Alert system, local radio and television stations, and the university’s emergency information phone line at (269) 387-1001.

The status of WMU-Grand Rapids will be determined by local conditions, with updates provided on the main university website. In cases of weather-related closures, students and staff are advised to check the university events calendar for event cancellations or changes in format. Those responsible for posting events must update their listings to reflect any changes.

The university encourages all members of its community to dress appropriately for cold weather. Recommendations include covering heads, ears, and hands; wearing scarves, insulated gloves, hats or knit caps; layering clothing; and choosing loose-fitting, windproof outer layers. Proper footwear is also stressed to prevent frostbite in fingers and toes.

For additional safety guidance during winter conditions, Western Michigan University refers individuals to resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the National Weather Service.

Since 1999, Western Michigan University has closed due to severe winter weather on several occasions. Notable closures include heavy snowfall delaying semesters in 1999 and 2014, ice storms causing power outages in 2006 and 2023, blizzard conditions in December 2009, and multiple instances of snow or dangerously low temperatures leading to campus shutdowns between 2013 and 2024.

“Unless you receive an official notification through one of the channels listed below, you can assume that all campuses remain open and operations continue as scheduled,” according to a statement from Western Michigan University.

For further updates on news or events at Western Michigan University, visit WMU News online.