Like any other Nebraskan town, Wayne is no stranger to Mother Nature’s strong winter seasons. Many people anticipated a big snowstorm to hit Wayne last Thursday, but most people were surprised (and maybe disappointed) to find out that the amount of snow that had fallen didn’t match the forecast. Students braved the journey out to classes that morning, despite the cold weather that still remained.

The American Midwest has a temperate climate compared to other parts of the country; states like Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota and Nebraska experience the most of all four of the seasons. Summers can be especially hot and full of storms and, as we’ve experienced lately, winters can be harshly cold and produce lots of snow.

According to the U.S. Climate Data website, the average annual snowfall for Wayne is 32 inches.

The months in which Wayne receives the most snow are December, January, February, and March, all receiving an average of 6 inches
annually.

How does Wayne State handle snow on campus? Not lightly.

“Our first consideration on anything to do with activities here with the college, relating to weather conditions, is safety,” said Jay Collier, director of College Relations. “Discussions around cancellations or delay of classes always start from the point of view in terms of safety, which revolves around whether we can get the snow or ice removed. If there is confidence that snow and ice can be removed, then we default to trying to keep campus open.”

Class cancellations have totaled to just a handful in the last few years, which shows how dedicated Wayne State is to make sure that students get the most of their time in the classroom.

“It’s tough to put an average on it,” said Collier. “In the time I’ve been here, about eleven years, I could count on two hands how many times we’ve cancelled.”

Commuter students, teachers and other faculty may have a hard time trying to get to campus, especially if they live farther out of town.

“I always feel for commuter students. These students drive a long way to come to school, and it’s tough for them to come if they’re stuck at home,” said Collier.

We always encourage them to talk to their professor before the storm rolls in to know what do to stay on top of class material. We have quite a few faculty who live out of town, so it’s an issue for them as well. They may cancel classes, so it’s done on a class-to-class basis. These days, it’s really easy to build a group chat with your students or email them to let them know that class is cancelled. We try to be sensitive to all of our employees who live out of town,” said Collier.

Whether you find yourself with an extra blanket on your bed in the dorms or getting bundled up to travel out of town for classes, make sure to dress warm for the cold season that’s still on its way. Wayne State offers fun events even during the freezing temperatures, such as intramural sports and club activities.