<p>Key point - once the winds start up - stay inside - flying debris can cause severe injuries, and there may be downed active power lines. </p>
<p>(FYI - Areas west of Cville in the Mtns. have a blizzard warning). </p>
<p>Dear Parents:</p>
<p>Hurricane Sandy is likely to affect much of the eastern half of the nation, including Virginia. After making preparations over the weekend, we are approaching the next few days with great vigilance. Given the unprecedented size of the storm and the large number of people it is expected to affect, we have been monitoring conditions closely as the storm progresses. The safety of all members of the community is our utmost priority. I wanted to communicate with you directly and ask for your help in impressing upon your daughter or son just how serious this storm may become. Taking personal responsibility for safety will be critical.</p>
<p>This evening, I sent a message to all students, faculty, and staff announcing that Monday classes will be cancelled. We will continue to provide services to students, and many student facilities will remain open, including Newcomb Hall; all dining facilities with the exception of N2, the temporary dining structure located near Newcomb; and all the recreational facilities. Student Health will be closed, but the U.Va. Emergency Department and the hospital will be open. As other major schedule changes occur, you and your student can find up-to-date information on the Universitys homepage, virginia.edu. We will also use the Universitys Twitter account and other avenues for supplemental communications. </p>
<p>For students, the safest course will be to remain inside and use the time they normally would have been in class to catch up on reading, homework, and sleep. Within the residence halls, the Resident Advisers and other staff members will be available to any of their residents who need assistance. They have spent today in preparation for the storm, and as needed, will be relaying important safety reminders and notifying residents of any changes that may occur as a result of weather conditions or power outages.</p>
<p>You can help us by reminding your student to be smart about personal safety. Students should not use candles in the event of power outages. Students should not venture outside once winds become exceptionally high nor should they drive through standing water. Hurricanes bring not only bad weather, but also downed power lines and trees, flying debris, broken glass, and numerous other hazards. As at other times, we encourage our students to look out for one another.</p>
<p>Now is the time to ensure that cellphones, laptops, and other devices are fully charged. Because cellphone calls may become difficult to make, you may find that texting is a more effective method of communicating with your student.</p>
<p>We are grateful for your support as we meet the challenges of Hurricane Sandy, and we send best wishes for the safety of your entire family during this time.</p>
<p>Very truly yours,</p>
<p>Teresa A. Sullivan</p>