Module 1a: Let it Snow

heavy snow.

Instructions

Watch the Multimedia for Module.  Read the Scenario Update, Key Issues and Possible Discussion Topics.

Based on the information provided in this module, participate in the discussion concerning the issues raised.

In your group, identify what actions should be taken, and any additional requirements, critical issues, decisions, and/or questions that should be addressed at this time.

Multimedia for Module

7pm, Tuesday (November 12)

Multimedia update that summarizes the key events occurring this day

Scenario Update

Tuesday, 5pm (11/12/2013)

Temperatures over much of the eastern United States are falling quickly.  The area of low pressure has rapidly intensified.  Erie County is beginning to receive heavy sustained snowfall with 5 inches on the ground and snowfall rates of 1-2 inches/ an hour???.

Heaviest snow falls are expected in Buffalo and the South towns, with 15 to 20 inches of lake enhanced snow expected according to the National Weather Service.   Snowfall is expected to significantly increase early to mid-morning tomorrow November 13th.

A Blizzard Warning is in effect in Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Orleans, and Genesee counties, with the rest of western and central New York under a Winter Storm Warning. Local officials are asking residents to be prepared for inclement weather.

•What are the Key Issues and Questions?

•What are some of the uncertainties?

•What actions are taken?



Key Issues

  1. Safety concerns for students, faculty and staff, and the logistics to ensure their safety.
  2. Amherst, Buffalo, and Erie County Residents are being asked to limit unnecessary travel
  3. More decisions need to be made about UB’s operational status

Possible Discussion Topics

  1. Did UB cancel activities for today, November 12th?  When was that decision made?
  2. Whether UB is staying open and cancelling some activities or closing, did we notify all UB students, faculty, and staff?  If UB is open for business, did we notify UB students, faculty, and staff to let them know that UB was open?  How will this information be communicated throughout the day?
  3. Would we have differing responses based on which campus is involved (downtown, North, South)?
  4. If UB is open but cancels selected activities early, how will this information be communicated to students, staff, and faculty?
  5. How will we maintain situational awareness as it unfolds?  How is this information shared and with whom is it shared?
  6. What is UB’s policy for communicating during off hours? 
  7. If UB cancelled activities, what is UB’s HR policy for snow-related closure (paid day off, unpaid day off, etc.)?  How is this communicated?
  8. If UB remained open, what is UB’s responsibility to students, faculty, and staff to ensure their safety during the inclement weather?  Are there any policies in place that discuss safety issues? 
Next Module (Winter is Coming)