The season for weather emergencies in Philadelphia is the opposite of what I am used to. In Florida summer is the typical time for weather emergencies, ie hurricanes. Naturally as it is winter here the emergency at hand is that of snow. Now I have no clue how to prepare for these kinds of events. The snow storm before spring break was a complete shock. Super windy almost like a tropical storm but instead of rain and flooding you were pelted with cold snow fluffies. Needless to say I did not walk home that day.

I bring this up because today Philadelphia is faced with another weather emergency. Just when everything is looking peachy and spring like winter strikes again! Today we are under a warning for 8-12 inches of snow with classes pending cancellation.

Now since I don’t really know how one would prepare for this kind of event, or if there is even any kind of preparation, I found it really nice that Penn sent out an email about it. At the bottom of the email is a list of emergency numbers and stations one can listen to for news and updates on the event. I have placed some of the more important information on the Penn Links page for future reference. I will also list below the links given to students to help stay aware of the  weather event.

• University emergency information number: (215) 898-6358 (215-898-MELT)
• KYW News Radio (1060 AM)
• the UPennAlert Emergency Notification System (for University-related incidents & crises)- these communications may come through email, text, or over a loud speaker depending on the event. Students need to be sure their contact information is up to date with Penn to ensure reciept of any alerts.
• http://www.upenn.edu/almanac/volumes/v62/n16/suspension-normal-operations.html

Naturally checking ones email is important during emergency events as that seems to be the primary form of communication from the university. Wherever you are in this lovely weather: stay safe, stay warm, and always use caution!