January 6 evening update: VIU anticipates campuses will re-open on Friday, January 7

Severe Weather Closure

January 6, 2022 - 4:30pm

January 6, 2022 evening update: VIU crews continue to work hard to remove snow. At this point, we anticipate all campuses and facilities will re-open on Friday, January 7, but please do not start travelling to campus until you hear from us at 6:30 am tomorrow, as snow removal efforts are ongoing.    

Vancouver Island University’s Nanaimo campus, Cowichan campus and Trades Centre, Powell River Campus, Parksville Centre, and G.R. Paine Horticultural Centre remain CLOSED for the remainder of today (January 6) due to severe weather. Milner Gardens & Woodland is closed as regularly scheduled. 

The next update will be at 6:30 am on Friday, January 7. Please do not start to travel to VIU until you receive this update. 

PLEASE NOTE: With the ability to work and study remotely, some of us may be able to continue to work and study when our campuses and facilities close due to severe weather. As an employee, if you need input or direction, please contact your manager. If you are a student and are unsure, please check with your instructor.

Please do not attempt to travel to a closed location until you have received confirmation that it has been reopened.

Some on-campus areas that will be maintained on the Nanaimo campus during the closure include: 

  • The Library Commons (card ID access only) 
  • VIU Residences  

The next update will on Friday, January 7 at 6:30 am and the first announcement will be sent out through VIU’s Safety App. After that information will be posted to:  

For more information on what happens when it snows, visit VIU’s Severe Weather Procedures page.  

When VIU opens again:  

FOR EMPLOYEES:  

We know our region has many micro-climates and accumulation can vary dramatically. If you are unable to report to work or will be late to work because of inclement weather conditions and/or you have dependents affected by school or day care closures and alternative arrangements cannot be made, please contact your manager/department lead. We encourage you to use your discretion and work with your manager to make alternate work arrangements. People with mobility challenges or known medical conditions that may be exacerbated by a fall due to slippery conditions/weather conditions on campus may wish to evaluate their individual circumstance with their manager prior to coming to campus. 

If you are unable to work from home, normally you have the option of either: 

  • Taking a vacation day. 
  • Making up the time.  
  • Using lieu time (where applicable). 
  • Taking leave without pay.      

FOR STUDENTS:  

We know our region has many micro-climates and snow accumulation can vary dramatically. Students are asked to use their best judgment when deciding if they are able to come in if the campus is open. If they are not able to come in, students are asked to let their instructors know and accommodations will be made for missed work and exams.  


Tags: Announcements


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