Citing potential record-low temperatures well below zero degrees, University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto announced Wednesday that UK will close operations Thursday, Feb. 19, and Friday, Feb. 20.
All UK HealthCare clinics will remain open on normal operating hours.
"Our UK HealthCare family and scores of people on campus in facilities, parking, housing and dining, and emergency management have done a remarkable job keeping this campus going under incredibly difficult circumstances," Capilouto said. "But we cannot compromise the safety of students, faculty or staff with exposure to temperatures that potentially will be well below zero."
Capilouto applauded the work of UK HealthCare officials, who are working extended shifts and in many instances spending the night at the hospital or nearby hotels for working to keep hospital operations and outpatient and other clinics working.
"They are fundamental to our mission of providing care to those most in need," he said.
Capilouto added that once temperatures begin to rise Friday, as projected, that will allow for UK crews to prepare the campus to re-open on Monday morning. Many UK employees -- from housing, dining and the physical plant division -- will continue working while the institution is closed to ensure that facilities are maintained.
Moreover, some facilities -- dining, recreation and student housing -- will remain open during this period. Updated information and schedules can be found at www.uky.edu/alerts.
