Winter Weather Reminders
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Especially if this is your first winter in Montana, take a moment to review these . If you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions, consider public transportation, ride-sharing or other options until you’ve had time to get used to driving on the ice, snow and slush. Check local road conditions and the weather forecast and make sure you allow plenty of time to get to your destination.
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The team at Facilities Services closely monitors incoming weather and we have a plan for snow removal on campus. Snow removal services are provided and managed by our grounds and labor teams. When we get significant snowfall, additional crews will be called in to work on major streets and parking lots, as well as interior campus sidewalks, building entrances and walking paths. We will prioritize accessible snow routes, with priority snow removal routes listed on the .
As you might imagine, providing real-time and complete snow and ice removal for every campus building and entrance is a challenge, especially if we experience heavy snowfall. For this reason, we will have buckets with gravel inside most building entrances and will ask our building emergency teams to assist as they are able with the entrances to their building.
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Ice storms present one of the biggest challenges for public safety and campus facilities. We will work to maintain streets, sidewalks, parking lots and building entrances. We also will ask for your help to mitigate your risks of injury. These measures include proper footwear for the conditions (consider investing in traction assistance, such as gripping cleats that can be added to your shoes). Use extreme caution when driving on icy streets and parking lots.
Report icy conditions by calling the Facilities Work Order Desk at 406-243-6091 or submit a work order through our online system.
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The University has developed protocols for severe winter weather that include how we will communicate with you during a weather emergency and in the rare event of a weather-related campus closure. When conditions are particularly treacherous (due to snow, ice, high winds or extreme cold), we may send a UM Alert (via email or text) to provide updated information.
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Extreme cold weather brings increased risk of property damage across campus. Most cold weather damage is caused by water pipes freezing, bursting and flooding buildings. To help us keep this to a minimum, please consider the following:
- Keep windows and doors closed and all spaces heated.
- If you must crack a window for fresh air, make sure it is closed again. Do not leave windows open for any length of time.
- Most cases of burst pipes and flooding are caused by windows and doors being left open.
- Do not prop open exterior building doors. With sub-zero temperatures and high winds, doors propped open even a crack can blow open and cause pipes to freeze.
- If your unit is responsible for an infrequently used building or space, make sure the heat is turned on and functional.
- If you see a potential problem, fix it or report it.
- If you see an open window, close it.
- If you see a door propped open, close it.
- If you enter a space that feels unheated or you notice water pooling or leaking in any building, report it immediately.
Please report any concerns to the Facilities Services Work Order Desk at 406-243-6091. After hours, this extension will ring into UM Police Department Dispatch. Thanks for your help to minimize damage during cold temperatures.
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Here are some helpful links to information about the latest weather conditions in Montana. Whatever the weather, you’ll be better prepared by gathering as much timely, accurate information as you can.
- will provide information on current hazardous weather conditions, extended forecast and the detailed forecast for the university district.
- The Montana Department of Transportation has links to road conditions, real-time cameras for mountain passes and other areas and travel information. You can also access road condition information by dialing 511 on your cell phone or landline phone.
- Lastly, if you must travel during winter storms, make sure you’re prepared for an emergency. Keep a flashlight, food, water and a blanket or additional warm clothing in your vehicle. This will help you and also enable you to help others in an emergency.
