It’s January and Philadelphia has yet to experience a significant snowfall; however, January and February are the snowiest months in the city. Though Penn is always running, emergencies such as snow, hurricanes, and other severe weather conditions may sometimes result in the cancellation of classes or the full or partial closure of certain areas of the University.

The senior executive vice president makes decisions affecting work schedules and class cancellations in consultation with the Provost. The University will announce a closing or other modification of work schedules through the following channels:

• Penn’s emergency information number: (215) 898-6358 ((215) 898-MELT)
• Communications from the Division of Public Safety
• KYW News Radio (1060 AM), the City of Philadelphia’s official storm emergency center
• The UPennAlert Emergency Notification System (for University-related incidents and crises)

Penn’s emergency radio identification code numbers (KYW News Radio) are “102” for day classes, schools and centers, and “2102” for evening classes. The message that accompanies the code number will provide Penn’s operating status. Be sure to keep this information in a place you can easily access.

Even when Penn is officially closed due to an emergency, some essential services must still be provided, such as Public Safety, Facilities, or Penn Dining. Staff members in essential positions are still required to work as normally scheduled under these circumstances. Penn’s Suspension of Normal Operations policy details the University’s operations in case a weather event requires a partial or full closing. The policy is under review and may be modified in the coming months. For more information about the current policy, please review the Policy Manual webpage.