Texas Woman’s University was blanketed with about 3 inches of snow and ice over the weekend of January 23, turning the campus into a veritable winter wonderland. Additionally, all TWU campuses closed for the following week due to hazardous road conditions, ice and sleet. There were multiple lane closures across various highways and, though Denton’s power grid held strong, East Texas experienced localized power outages.
Despite temperatures reaching below freezing, students could be found all over campus sledding, exploring, and enjoying the snow. Although the winter storm has passed, bitter temperatures will linger in the following months, and students should remember important information to keep themselves and those around them safe.
Students living in on and off-campus apartments should open the kitchen sink and bathroom vanity cabinets so the sink pipes receive warm air, and drip all faucets to ensure that their pipes don’t freeze. Students should also make sure their thermostats are set at 68-70 degrees. Students living in dorms should keep windows and blinds closed to retain heat in the room, and remember that space heaters, generators, and candles are fire hazards and prohibited in campus housing.
When venturing outside, make sure to wear appropriate clothing such as warm socks, thick jackets, layered clothing, hats, earmuffs, and scarves. Take small steps when walking to avoid slipping and, if the roads are icy, avoid driving unless necessary. Don’t just use the weather app on your phone, instead continually check The National Weather Service for reliable and trustworthy updates.
For more information on how to stay safe during severe winter weather, TWU’s Risk Management is hosting Winter Wednesday information sessions for students to learn tips and tricks to prepare and protect themselves during winter months. The next event will be held on February 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the dining hall. For any questions, contact Adrienna Chapparro at achapparro@twu.edu.
Isabella Castillo can be contacted via email at icastillo4@twu.edu
Cover photo credit to Preston Hernandez
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