severe weather event,” Gonyar continues.

Adverse weather can have significant consequences. According to the National Weather Service, each year, the United States averages about 10,000 thunderstorms, 5,000 floods, 1,000 tornadoes and two hurricanes. Roughly 90 percent of presidentially declared disaster areas are weather-related.

At UNC Charlotte, when weather threatens campus operations, an adverse weather team responds. This team includes representatives from facilities management, police and public safety, auxiliary services (parking, dining, transportation, etc.), housing and residence life, university communications and many others units.

Typically, staff in the Office of Business Continuity Planning (BCP) begin intently monitoring local weather conditions, using the Internet and TV, and personnel may consult with the National Weather Service for the Southern Piedmont region.

While dozens of University employees directly help prepare for and respond to inclement weather,most of the campus community is unaware of the complex considerations that affect the decision to delay or cancel classes, close campus or continue the standard schedule.

The University chancellor, in consultation with the vice chancellor for business affairs, makes the final decision regarding campus operations in the event of adverse weather.

Prior to an anticipated weather event, the adverse weather team begins to discuss conditions and to consider options for a final decision. As the expected adverse weather nears the area, campus leaders receive assessments of conditions on campus and in the University’s area – including the surrounding counties from which students and employees commute. The team also considers decisions made by other local organizations, including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), Charlotte Douglas Airport.

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