With a major winter storm expected to bring severe weather to Pennsylvania this weekend, the Office of Academic & Student Services wants to ensure you are aware of (1) winter storm preparation and protection protocols, (2) ways to stay informed throughout the storm, and (3) local resources where you can access support.
WINTER STORM PREPARATION & PROTECTION
As you prepare for the extreme cold and heavy precipitation, please heed the following guidance:
Gather Supplies
Have essentials on hand in case travel is limited or power is disrupted:
- Bottled water
- Nonperishable food
- Snow supplies (shovel and ice melt)
- Medications
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Power banks or portable chargers
- Blankets
- Warm clothing
- Pet food and supplies
Plan Ahead
Simple steps now can make a big difference later:
- Keep phones, laptops, and power banks charged
- Plan to stay indoors during severe weather
- Postpone travel until conditions improve
Think It Through
Consider how you’ll manage if conditions change:
- How will you stay warm if your power goes out?
- What food options will you have without electricity?
- Who can you check in on—or who can check in on you?
Protect Yourself
- Limit the time you spend outside
- If you must be outside, dress appropriately (consider a non-cotton base layer, an insulating layer, and a wind- or water-resistant outer shell) and reduce the amount of exposed skin as frostbite can develop quickly in extreme cold conditions
- If you notice symptoms of hypothermia (shivering, falling body temperature, confusion), check your temperature to ensure a reading at or above 95 degrees Fahrenheit. A temperature below 95 degrees requires immediate medical attention.
- Stay hydrated
- If using a space heater, keep it at least three feet away from anything that could easily catch fire (including drapes, furniture, and bedding)
- Do not travel during the height of the storm
WAYS TO STAY INFORMED
The following resources will help you stay informed throughout the storm:
Power Outages
- If you experience a power outage or want updates on restoration times, you can view local outage information through FirstEnergy’s outage map.
Pennsylvania Weather
- Pennsylvania Weather resources can be found here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/pema/public-safety/pa-weather-resources
Emergency Alert Information
- For emergency alert information in Cumberland County, please visit: https://www.cumberlandcountypa.gov/AlertCenter.aspx
- For emergency alert information in Centre County, please visit: https://centrecountypa.gov/2050/Emergency-Safety-Resources
- Students should stay informed about delays and cancellations by using Penn State’s PSUAlert system (which offers both email and text options). As a reminder, decisions about Carlisle operations are made by Dean Dodge in his capacity as Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, while the University Park location follows central university guidance. The policies outlined here apply to both locations during inclement weather. Additionally, registered events and programs are canceled during closures unless extenuating circumstances are communicated directly.
- LOCAL RESOURCES FOR SUPPORT
In case you need support during this extreme weather, you can find assistance through PA 211:
PA 211 Winter Resources — Pennsylvania Assistance Directory (https://www.pa211.org/winter-resources/)
- This statewide resource connects people to winter help by entering your zip code, including assistance with heating bills, locating warming centers or shelters, and support during extreme weather events. You can also dial 211 or text your zip code to 898-211 to speak with a resource navigator who can find nearby resources for cold weather and power outages.
Extreme Cold Warming Centers & Shelters
- A list of Extreme Cold Warming Centers and Shelters in Carlisle can be found here and here; the closest two are located at:
Salvation Army Carlisle – Senior Action Center
20 East Pomfret Street, Carlisle, PA, 17013
(717) 249-5007
Community CARES – Winter Weather Shelter
201 West Louther Street, Carlisle, PA, 17013
(717) 448-8850
- A list of Warming Centers and Shelters in University Park can be found here and here; the closest two are located at:
128 W. Howard St., Bellefonte, PA 16823
Note: Trinity Bellefonte is staying open 24 hours as a warming center for anyone to get out of the cold and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Out of the Cold – Extreme Weather Shelter
318 South Atherton Street, State College, PA, 16801
(814) 852-8864
- Centre County residents can also contact Centre Helps, the local 24-hour information and referral hotline, at 800-494-2500 for information and questions about accessing shelter.
- Students in University Park can find additional resources through Student Care and Advocacy and stay up to date on weather information here.
Please do not underestimate the danger posed by extreme weather. We care about your health and safety, and we hope this guidance allows you to stay safe and warm throughout the anticipated storm.
Sincerely,
The Academic & Student Services Team
