Thursday, September 07, 2017

This message was sent via campus email to all UNCW students, faculty and staff.

12:55 p.m. -- As the UNCW community knows, N.C. Governor Roy Cooper has declared a state of emergency as of 8 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 7. While this reinforces the need for us to be prepared for any weather outcome, on campus and at home, it is still too early to determine the exact track of Hurricane Irma and its potential impact for our immediate area. 

We are monitoring the situation in close collaboration with the National Weather Service and local agencies, and we will share updates on any actions that may be required, which may include a voluntary or mandatory campus evacuation and/or campus closure. More information about the university’s evacuation policies is available here.

We know these are unnerving circumstances, but the timing, track, and size of the storm must determine evacuation decisions, including the safest possible routes and locations. When there is any new information at all, we will share it with the university community as soon as authorities are confident in its accuracy. We are committed to ensuring all students have options should there be an evacuation. Details will be shared as authorities become more confident in the forecast, in order to provide the best and latest guidance about potential evacuation routes and locations.

As always, you must 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; employees, consult with your supervisors. Follow the course of action you believe is right for you. 

It is imperative that you continue to monitor your UNCW inboxes and the UNCW homepage and social media feeds (Facebook and Twitter), as well as local weather reports. The weather hotline (888.657-5751) will be activated today, but please bear in mind the hotline features the information that has already been disseminated via these other channels; it is in operation for those who may not have internet service for access to the homepage, etc. If you haven't already done so, please sign up for emergency text/telephone alerts in mySeaport.

Thank you for your continued attention.  Other resources are available here:

National Hurricane Center

UNCW Emergency Management

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