How Decisions Are Made

Changes to the university’s operating status are made in accordance with our adverse weather policy and based on the latest information, including National Weather Service forecasts, guidance from the UNC System Office and directives from local and state emergency management.

The university also takes into consideration many campus-specific factors, such as clear and safe access to roadways and university grounds. Weather forecasts might not always be accurate, but the university must weigh the likelihood of an adverse weather event against the timeliness of a universitywide notification. During adverse weather and other emergency event conditions, employees and students should take reasonable precautions for personal safety.

Condition Chart

Condition	Classes	Campus Events	Students	Faculty	Mandatory Employees	Non-Mandatory Employees
Condition 1: Reduced Operations The university is open, with some reduced operations.	Generally in session.	Generally continue as scheduled, but the community is encouraged to check before coming to campus.	Classes are held unless an instructor notifies you otherwise. Missed work will be allowed to be made up.	If you cannot safely reach campus, notify students as early as possible about remote instruction or cancellation.	Must report to, or remain, at work. Remote work may be permitted with supervisor approval.	May report late, leave early, work remotely or not report with pre-approval. Time missed must be made up or leave taken.
Condition 2: Suspended Operations The university is open on a very limited basis, only mandatory operations.	Canceled, regardless of delivery method.	Most events are cancelled, with possible limited exceptions.	Not expected on campus, with the exception of residential students. Makeup work may be expected.	Classes are canceled and arrangements should be made to complete interrupted instruction and activities.	Must report to work, remain at work, or as temporarily assigned. Remote work may be permitted with approval.	Do not report to work. May arrange remote work with pre-approval. Time missed must be made up or leave taken.
Condition 3: Closure The university is closed.	Canceled, regardless of delivery method.	Most events are cancelled, with possible limited exceptions.	Not expected on campus, with the exception of residential students. Makeup work may be expected.	Classes are canceled and arrangements should be made to complete interrupted instruction and activities.	Only employees specifically directed to work should report to work.	Do not report to work. No make-up time required.

Note: If you are unclear of whether your position is mandatory or non-mandatory, please contact your supervisor. For more information on Human Resources policies and procedures related to changes in university operating conditions, including instructions for timekeeping, consult the University Human Resources page.

If No Condition Is Announced

• The university is operating normally.
• Employee working hours and classes follow regular schedules.

Additional Location-Specific Guidance 

Location Type	What Applies
Wake County Facilities	Follow university-announced conditions unless otherwise stated.
NC State Extension	Follow local government weather decisions.
Off-Campus Unites (e.g. research stations, 4-H camps)	Consult college/division leadership and follow county or UNC-affiliated guidance.
Leased/Rented Facilities	Follow university’s operating condition instructions unless landlord’s facilities are unavailable, in which case contact University Real Estate and Development for guidance.
Remote Work	Not impacted. Employees are expected to work their normal schedules unless otherwise announced.