Amanda Ross

Editor-In-Chief

On Monday and Tuesday of this week, Penn State Behrend delayed classes until 10 a.m. due to inclement weather. This comes off the back of the closing of several other campuses due to similar conditions. 

The campus delayed its opening until 10 a.m the past two days in service of allowing extra time for plows to clear roads and sidewalks, along with allowing for increased daylight. While temperature was not cited in these two closings, it was cited as a factor in the Jan. 20 delay, with all three days having comparable temperatures. Hazelton and Scranton also had delayed starts, with similar reasons given. Several other Penn State campuses closed completely including University Park and nearby Shenango. Other universities in the Erie area also closed as well. Gannon University in downtown Erie closed on Monday, with activities resuming on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Mercyhurst suspended all in-person classes, with students set to return on Wednesday at their regular times. 

The current weather conditions are due to a widespread winter storm, with much of the country facing intense cold temperatures and heavy snow. There are also warnings for widespread ice, sleet, and freezing rain. Wind chill is also a concern, with feels-like temperatures dropping below zero. 

Campus leadership has continued to emphasize that students should exercise discretion in regards to their own circumstances and ability to attend classes. It is unclear at this time if classes will also be delayed for the rest of the week, with Friday currently having a low of minus one according to the National Weather Service. Students are encouraged to dress appropriately and layer up to prevent potential frostbite.