Attention, Baylor University Waco Campus community! We have some important updates regarding the upcoming extreme weather conditions and their impact on our campus.
Extreme Cold and Ice: A Recipe for Remote Learning
With an Arctic cold front set to hit Central Texas, including our beloved Waco campus, we're facing a challenging situation. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning, and the extreme cold is expected to bring freezing rain, sleet, and dangerously low temperatures.
Remote Instruction and Telework: Our Plan for Monday, Jan. 26, 2026
To ensure the safety of our students, faculty, and staff, the Baylor University Waco Campus will be shifting to remote instruction and telework on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. With hazardous road conditions and icy sidewalks, it's crucial that we prioritize everyone's well-being.
For employees unable to telework, please reach out to your direct supervisor for further guidance.
Special Notes for Our Dallas Nursing Campus and Baylor Law School
Please keep an eye on your emails for important updates and instructions from Dean Linda Plank (Dallas nursing campus) and Dean Jeremy Counseller (Baylor Law School).
Weather Forecast and Campus Impact: What to Expect
The Extreme Cold Warning has been extended until 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026. While no more precipitation is expected, the temperatures will remain well below freezing, with wind chills dropping as low as 5 degrees below zero.
All roads in the Waco area are icy, and TxDOT crews are focusing their efforts on Interstate-35. We anticipate further deterioration of road conditions with a hard freeze tonight. It's essential that everyone stays off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
Campus roads and sidewalks are also affected, so please exercise extra caution when walking.
Next Update: Tuesday's Plans
The University will provide an update on our plans for Tuesday, Jan. 27, tomorrow afternoon. Keep an eye on your Baylor email, official social media channels, and the main Baylor website for the latest information.
Campus Dining, Libraries, and Facilities Updates
Penland Crossroads Dining Hall has made some adjustments to its Sunday schedule, including offering a "Deep Freeze Discount" for non-meal plan holders. For more details on campus dining, visit their website and social media channels.
As for libraries and other facilities, we'll provide updates on this page as soon as we have more information.
Microsoft Service Disruption: An Important Note
Microsoft has reported that they have resolved Thursday's widespread service degradation, which may have caused some email delays on Jan. 22, 2026. Rest assured, Baylor University employs multiple systems to ensure timely communication, including our main website, official social media channels, and local media.
Campus Parking Garages: A Request for Students
Due to the anticipated icy weather, we kindly ask students who have parked on the top levels of campus parking garages to relocate their vehicles to lower levels or surface lots after 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026.
Campus Closures and Adjusted Hours
The Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center and Jones Library will be closed on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 24-25, 2026. Moody Library will operate regular hours, but access will be limited to certain areas.
The Bill Daniel Student Center (SUB) has adjusted its hours for the weekend, and the Mail Center and Amazon locker areas will remain accessible daily.
The McLane Student Life Center will close at 8 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 23, and remain closed all day Saturday and Sunday.
The Baylor University Shuttle (BUS) will not operate on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026.
Preparation and Safety Tips: What You Need to Know
Here are some important tips to help you prepare for the extreme weather:
- Remember the Four P's: People, Pets, Plants, and Pipes.
- If you live off-campus, keep the heat on and set it to at least 68°F to prevent frozen pipes. Open cabinets below sinks and let faucets drip slowly.
- Charge your devices in case of power interruptions.
- Dress warmly in layers and limit your time outdoors due to the extreme wind chills.
- Be cautious on slick surfaces like sidewalks and stairs. Report any hazards to Baylor Facilities.
- Avoid unnecessary travel and stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. BUPD will have increased patrols to assist and monitor conditions.
Telehealth and Counseling Services
If you require healthcare or counseling during this period, Baylor Telehealth by AcademicLiveCare offers 24/7 access to urgent care and counseling services.
Stay Informed: Additional Resources
For future updates, please continue to monitor your Baylor email, the main Baylor website, and official University social media channels. Additionally, keep an eye on local media outlets for the latest weather forecasts and local conditions.
And there you have it, Baylor family! Stay warm, stay safe, and let's navigate this winter storm together. We'll keep you updated as the situation evolves.
