As you know, the University continues to monitor Hurricane Florence and its potential impact on the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County area and is taking steps to keep the campus community safe. The University and our department’s highest priority is the health, safety, and wellbeing of our students.

As noted in the latest update from Communications and External Relations , classes will be canceled and offices will be closed from Friday, Sept. 14 through Sunday, Sept. 16. All Hurricane Florence-related updates are posted on the Wake Alert website ( wakealert.wfu.edu ). Please continue to monitor the Wake Alert website , follow @WakeAlert on Twitter and Facebook , and add the University’s Weather/Emergency line (336-758-5935) to your phone contacts.

Additionally, the Office of Residence Life and Housing encourages residents to:
  • Review hurricane preparedness tips available at https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
  • Ensure all windows and doors to your apartments/homes are closed and secured.
  • Program University Police’s number (336-758-5911) programmed into your phone.
  • Keep your phones, laptops and other electronic devices charged in the event of power outages.
  • Know who your property manager/landlord is and have their contact information available to report any property damage/concerns.

It is our hope that the impact on our area is less than anticipated. And while the forecast today is certainly better for our region than predicted earlier in the week, we encourage you to remember these tips wherever you are:
  • Turn Around! Don’t Drown! Do not drive through standing water, turn around and find another path.
  • Avoid downed power lines, and any water around, as they may still be live and could electrically charge the water.
  • Use caution! High winds can cause tree limbs and debris to become loose and/or airborne.

Finally, should your University-owned off-campus housing become uninhabitable (i.e. roof damage, flooded, prolonged power outage) please contact the Office of Residence Life and Housing at 336-758-5185, [email protected] for instructions on on-campus shelter options available from the University. Outside of business hours, please contact University Police at 336-758-5591 and ask to be connected with the Residence Life and Housing Professional On-Call. If coming to campus you are encouraged to bring sleeping bags, blankets, and any necessary personal items for a temporary stay.

As always, make the best decision for you personally. Your safety is our primary concern, but you know your circumstances better than anyone. Students, consult with your families and follow the course of action you believe is right for you.

Best -

Zach Blackmon, M.Ed, MBA
Assistant Director of Operations
Office of Residence Life and Housing
Wake Forest University
Stay Connected
Wake Alert: wakealert.wfu.edu or follow @WakeAlert on Twitter and Facebook

336.758.5185 | [email protected] | rlh.wfu.edu |