Kennesaw State University has announced that all its campuses will be closed from 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, January 25. The closure is a precaution due to a winter storm expected to bring hazardous icy conditions and potential power outages across metro Atlanta and nearby areas.
According to the National Weather Service office in Peachtree City, freezing rain is forecast overnight Saturday for the area around Kennesaw State’s campuses. This could make roads impassable and cause widespread power outages.
The university’s emergency management officials are communicating updates about operational changes through email and text messages to students, faculty, and staff as the situation develops.
“KSU is closely monitoring the weather and will provide updates on campus operations through the KSU Emergency Email and Text Alert system and other KSU communication channels,” officials said in an email sent to the campus community. “To have the most up-to-date information from the National Weather Service, a decision about campus operations for Monday, Jan. 26, will not be made until Sunday, Jan. 25.”
Campus operations personnel have been preparing by salting sidewalks and getting ready to address possible issues such as power outages or burst water pipes.
University officials have also provided information to help students, faculty, and staff prepare for the storm.
While academic and administrative offices will close during this period, essential services such as Campus Police, residence halls, and dining facilities will remain open throughout the closure.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm. This declaration allows state agencies to begin preparations and puts the National Guard on alert in case assistance is needed in affected areas. The storm system extends from Texas through the Carolinas.
