Due to the uncertainty of electrical power and internet reliability in the Houston area, classes will be canceled (no classes, exams or assignment uploading) on Tuesday (Feb. 16). The university will cease normal operations on campus and COVID-19 testing on Tuesday has been canceled. Only essential personnel should report to the campus on Tuesday. All other staff should revert to remote working arrangements made with their supervisors.

The Fondren Library, the Rice Student Center, and the Gibbs Recreation and Wellness Center all remain closed. Rice shuttle service has been halted through Tuesday evening.

During the winter storm emergency, the crisis management team urges the campus community to stay indoors as much as possible. Sidewalks and streets may be covered with ice, creating a hazard for anyone walking around the campus. Spending more time indoors may increase the possibility of COVID transmission in enclosed spaces both on and off-campus, so please remember to mask, physically distance, and wash your hands often.

If you are on campus and have an emergency or see anyone who needs help, please don’t hesitate to contact RUPD at (713) 348-6000.

We’ll continue monitoring the weather conditions as well as power reliability issues and will release another update on Tuesday.

The Rice Crisis Management Team