Campus leaders at Augusta University are closely watching the weather forecast for the upcoming weekend, as models predict an increased chance of rain and wintry precipitation, including freezing rain and mixed conditions. These developments could impact campus travel and daily routines.
From Wednesday through Thursday, temperatures are expected to remain cool with highs in the 50s and 60s, accompanied by mostly dry weather. This period is seen as a good opportunity for students and staff to complete errands or make necessary preparations.
By Friday and Saturday, cloud cover is likely to increase along with a higher probability of rain and lower temperatures. Over the weekend, there is a strong possibility that rain may turn into freezing rain or mixed precipitation as temperatures drop further. Such conditions can make roads and sidewalks slippery, raising safety concerns for those on campus.
Any changes to campus operations will be communicated directly by university administrators. “The safety of our AU community is the top priority for university leadership,” according to the announcement.
Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to prepare ahead of time by refilling medications, charging electronic devices, planning travel routes before conditions worsen, filling up vehicles with gas early, layering appropriate cold-weather clothing, informing friends or family about travel plans—especially if traveling—and ensuring they have at least three days’ worth of water and non-perishable food available.
On-campus safety reminders include being alert for slick areas on sidewalks and parking lots if temperatures fall below freezing. Community members should allow extra time when traveling across campus or commuting to work due to potential wet or icy roads. The need to cancel plans or limit travel may arise if driving becomes hazardous.
For those who must drive during winter weather events, assembling an emergency supply kit is recommended. Suggested items include a cell phone charger, full tank of gas, first aid kit, flashlight, warm clothing such as gloves and hats, water and snacks, jumper cables, spare tire, flares, sand or kitty litter for traction on ice, tow rope, blankets, snow shovel and brush.
Updates regarding Augusta University’s response—including possible schedule adjustments or closures—will be posted on official platforms such as the Augusta University homepage (https://www.augusta.edu/), Augusta University Alerts page (https://jagwire.augusta.edu/alerts/), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AugustaUniversity/), and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/aug_university/). Students and employees are urged to enroll in JagAlert (https://www.augusta.edu/services/jagalert.php) for automated notifications about urgent situations on campus as well as RAVE Guardian (https://www.augusta.edu/services/rave-guardian.php) for connecting with Augusta University Police Department in both emergency and non-emergency cases.
The university advises everyone to take steps now—such as charging devices ahead of possible power disruptions—to stay safe whether at home or on campus during this period of potentially hazardous winter weather.
