SC State to conduct classes virtually Friday as inclement weather expected

Announcement

Jan. 20, 2022

Only essential employees should come to campus.

ORANGEBURG, S.C. – South Carolina State University will conduct all classes online Friday, Jan. 21, 2022, as a result of inclement weather forecast for the region.

Students and faculty should log on to the university’s Blackboard application during regularly scheduled class times. Those experiencing connectivity issues should report concerns to [email protected].

Instructors should follow up with students regarding any concerns with coursework submissions or missed instruction.

The university’s cafeteria will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 5-7 p.m. Friday. The Pitt dining area will be closed.

Students and employees should call 803-596-6030 to report any facilities maintenance issues.

Aside from residence halls and the cafeteria, the SC State campus will be closed on Friday. Only essential employees should report to the campus for work. Other employees are expected to work from home. Employees should check in with supervisors about their status.

The university advises the campus community to be cautious when driving and/or walking in slippery conditions, as ice and snow are expected in portions of South Carolina.

The National Weather Service predicts a 90% chance of rain tonight for the Orangeburg area with a low around 31 degrees. Precipitation is expected to transition to freezing rain around 10 a.m. Friday, with a high of 35 degrees and winds around 14 mph.

More freezing rain is likely Friday night followed by a chance of sleet. The low will be around 25 degrees.

The NWS offers the following tips for winter safety:

· Slow down to stay safe if you must travel during periods of snow or freezing rain. If the temperature outside is near freezing, it is safest to assume ice is present on roads and drive accordingly.

· If there is ice on power lines or tree branches, the weight may cause them to snap and fall. Avoid driving during those conditions if possible. If you must go out, choose a route with the least number of trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power line and call 911 if you encounter one.

· If you must travel out of town, and dangerous winter weather conditions are expected, be sure to tell your family or friends where you are going, your intended route, and time of arrival.

· Make sure your gas tank is full. Carry a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket and additional warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.

· Don't panic if you become stranded. Call someone to let them know you are stranded. Do not try to walk to safety. Attach a cloth to your car antenna or mirror to indicate you need help. Use the dome light and flashers to make your vehicle more noticeable.

· Be alert for snowplows and allow plenty of room for them to pass. If you are going around a plow, only do so when you can see the road ahead of the plow.

· Check road conditions before you depart.

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Media Contact

Sam Watson

Public Information Officer

South Carolina State University

[email protected]

803-747-1223 (Cell)

About South Carolina State University

Founded in 1896 as a land grant institution with a mission of providing service to the citizens of the state, South Carolina State University has evolved from a small teachers’ college into a major University center of learning and research. Located in Orangeburg, S.C., South Carolina State offers more than 50 different fields of study on the undergraduate and graduate levels. South Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is a member of the Council of Graduate Schools.