Inclement Weather Information
Updated Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2025
At University of Arkansas Housing, the safety and well-being of our residents is our top priority. This page provides timely updates and essential information regarding housing operations during inclement weather, including severe storms, winter conditions, and other weather-related disruptions. Please check here regularly for announcements about building access, dining services, maintenance, and emergency procedures. We are committed to keeping you informed and prepared—no matter the forecast.
For updates on campus dining options during any type of weather event, please refer to the Dining Page or their Instagram page @foodonthehill_ar
Likewise, our Parking and Transit office will post any applicable updates using the uark.passiogo.com website.
Below you will find information on how to stay weather aware in all types of weather that is predictable for the Fayetteville area.
Severe Storms
Severe thunderstorms in Northwest Arkansas can develop quickly and bring dangerous conditions including high winds, lightning, hail, and flash flooding. In the event of severe storms, students should make sure their windows are closed and locked. If students are around town when a storm hits, they should be aware that flash flooding is common in Fayetteville. Do not walk or drive through floodwaters! Stay alert to weather conditions by using the National Weather Service.
Tornados
Tornadoes are a serious threat in Northwest Arkansas, and University Housing prioritizes student safety during these events. A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form—students should stay alert and monitor weather updates. A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar—students must take shelter immediately. All residence halls have designated safe areas, typically interior rooms or hallways on the lowest level, away from windows. When a warning is issued, students should move quickly to these areas and remain there until the all-clear is given. Updates will be sent through the RAZAlert system. Knowing the difference between a watch and a warning—and responding appropriately—can save lives.
Here is a list of the local and surrounding counties when listening and watching weather broadcasts:
- Washington County: Includes Fayetteville area, Elkins, Prairie Grove, Springdale
- Benton County: Immediately north of Washington County, includes Rogers and Bentonville
- Madison County: Immediately east of Washington County, includes Huntsville
- Crawford County: Immediately south of Washington County, includes Alma and Van Buren
- Sebastian County: Immediately south of Crawford County, includes Fort Smith area
- Carroll County: Immediately east of Benton County, includes Eureka Springs and Green Forest
- Adair Co.: Immediately west of Washington County
- Delaware Co., OK: Immediately west of Benton County
- Sequoyah Co., OK: Immediately west of Crawford County and Sebastian County
Fire
Fire safety is a critical part of living in University Housing. All residence halls are equipped with smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems to help protect students in the event of a fire. If a building-wide fire alarm sounds, students must evacuate the building immediately using the nearest exit—never use elevators during a fire emergency. Once outside, locate the hall staff in their reflective vests and move to the designated assembly area and wait for instructions from Housing staff or emergency personnel. Students should familiarize themselves with evacuation routes posted in their hall and avoid blocking exits or propping open fire doors. Tampering with fire safety equipment is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action. Safety starts with awareness—know your building, follow procedures, and report any fire hazards to Housing staff.
Winter Weather
Winter weather in Fayetteville can bring snow, ice, and freezing temperatures that impact travel, campus operations, and building conditions.
When winter weather has arrived, please use extra caution when entering and exiting the residence halls as there could be snow or ice in the entryways.
The priority for clearing the sidewalks of snow and ice around the residence halls will be paths to and from the dining halls.
A resident assistant (RA) on-duty will remain available should the campus move to an inclement weather status.
Please immediately notify staff if you see dripping or running water. Maintenance issues can also be reported to the FIX IT service center at 479-575-7005.