Introduction

Winter in Colorado can bring heavy snowfall, leading to potential class cancellations and campus closures at the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder). Students, faculty, and staff often wonder: Will there be a snow day tomorrow?

To help answer this question, many rely on the CU Boulder Snow Day Calculator—a tool designed to predict the likelihood of campus closures due to severe weather. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

• How the CU Boulder Snow Day Calculator works

• Factors influencing snow day decisions

• Alternative ways to check for closures

• Historical trends in CU Boulder snow days

• Tips for staying safe during winter storms

Whether you're a student hoping for a day off or a commuter planning your route, this guide will help you stay informed.

What is the CU Boulder Snow Day Calculator?

The CU Boulder Snow Day Calculator is an online tool (sometimes unofficial) that estimates the probability of CU Boulder closing due to snow. While the university administration makes the final call, these calculators use historical data, weather forecasts, and predictive algorithms to give users an educated guess.

How Does It Work?

Most snow day calculators consider:

1. Snowfall Predictions – The National Weather Service (NWS) and local meteorologists provide snowfall estimates.

2. Temperature & Wind Chill – Extreme cold and wind can make travel hazardous.

3. Road Conditions – If major roads (like US-36 or Broadway) are unsafe, closures are more likely.

4. Previous Closure Trends – CU Boulder has specific thresholds for cancellations.

5. Timing of the Storm – Morning snowstorms are more likely to cause delays than overnight snow.

While no tool is 100% accurate, these calculators provide a useful estimate.

Official CU Boulder Snow Closure Policies

Before relying solely on a snow day calculator, it’s important to understand how CU Boulder makes closure decisions.

Who Decides?

• The Chancellor’s Office, in consultation with Facilities Management and local authorities, makes the final call.

• Decisions are typically announced by 5:30 AM for morning classes and 2:00 PM for evening classes.

How Are Closures Announced?

CU Boulder communicates closures through:
✅ CU Boulder Alerts (Text/Email)
✅ University Website (www.colorado.edu)
✅ Social Media (@CUBoulder on Twitter/X, Facebook)
✅ Local News Outlets (Denver7, 9News, CBS Colorado)

Types of Closures

1. Full Campus Closure – All classes and non-essential operations are canceled.

2. Delayed Start – Classes begin later (e.g., 10 AM instead of 8 AM).

3. Remote Operations – Classes move online, but campus remains open.

Best Alternatives to the CU Boulder Snow Day Calculator

Since CU Boulder doesn’t officially endorse a specific snow day calculator, here are some reliable alternatives:

1. National Weather Service (NWS) Boulder

• https://www.weather.gov/bou/

• Provides real-time snowfall and winter storm warnings.

2. Weather Apps (AccuWeather, Weather.com, Dark Sky)

• Hourly forecasts and snow accumulation predictions.

3. CDOT Road Conditions

• www.cotrip.org

• Check highway conditions leading to CU Boulder.

4. CU Boulder’s Emergency Page

• www.colorado.edu/alert

• Official updates on closures.

Historical CU Boulder Snow Days: How Often Does Campus Close?

CU Boulder rarely closes completely, but delays and remote operations are more common. Here’s a look at past closures:

Key takeaways:

• Full closures are rare (only 1-2 per year).

• Delays are more frequent, especially in heavy snow.

• Remote operations have increased since COVID-19.

How Accurate Are Snow Day Calculators?

While helpful, snow day calculators have limitations:

✔ Pros:

• Use real-time weather data.

• Provide probability percentages.

• Help students plan ahead.

❌ Cons:

• Not officially affiliated with CU Boulder.

• Can’t account for last-minute administrative decisions.

• Sometimes overestimate or underestimate closures.

For the most accurate updates, always check official CU Boulder sources.

Tips for Students on Snow Days

If CU Boulder closes due to snow, make the most of your day:

❄ Stay Updated – Refresh CU’s alerts page.
❄ Avoid Dangerous Travel – If classes are canceled, don’t risk driving.
❄ Catch Up on Work – Use the extra time for assignments.
❄ Enjoy Outdoor Activities – Go sledding at Chautauqua Park!

Final Thoughts: Should You Trust a CU Boulder Snow Day Calculator?

While the CU Boulder Snow Day Calculator can be a fun and somewhat reliable tool, it’s not a substitute for official announcements. For the most accurate information, always check:

🔹 CU Boulder Alerts
🔹 NWS Boulder Forecasts
🔹 Local News Stations

By staying informed, you’ll never be caught off guard by a winter storm!

FAQs About CU Boulder Snow Days

Q: How much snow does it take for CU Boulder to close?
A: There’s no exact amount, but 6+ inches with dangerous road conditions increases the likelihood.

Q: Does CU Boulder cancel classes for cold temperatures alone?
A: Rarely—only if wind chills reach -20°F or lower.

Q: Are online classes ever canceled for snow?
A: Typically no, unless there’s a widespread power outage.

Q: Where can I find real-time updates?
A: Follow @CUBoulder on Twitter or check www.colorado.edu/alert.

Conclusion

The CU Boulder Snow Day Calculator is a handy tool for predicting campus closures, but it’s not foolproof. Always verify with official sources before making plans. Whether you’re hoping for a snow day or preparing for a commute, staying informed is key to navigating Colorado’s winter weather safely.