Boston University will close its Charles River, Fenway, and Medical Campuses on Monday, February 23, 2026, as a major nor’easter descends on the region, bringing the threat of blizzard conditions and significant snowfall. The university announced the closure in anticipation of 18 to 24 inches of snow and wind gusts reaching 40 to 60 mph, conditions expected to make travel extremely hazardous.
The decision impacts all classes and scheduled meetings, both in-person and virtual. According to university policy, most employees are not expected to work, though essential personnel are required to report as scheduled. Essential services on the Charles River and Fenway campuses include University Police, Residential Safety, Residence Life, Dining Services, Student Health Services, Facilities Management & Operations, Environmental Health & Safety, Mail Services, and Network Services. Additional essential services on the Medical Campus include Public Safety, Emergency Patient Treatment, and Occupational & Environmental Medicine.
The storm is forecast to begin Sunday afternoon around 4 p.m., intensifying overnight and continuing throughout Monday before tapering off in the afternoon. The heaviest snowfall is predicted between midnight and 7 a.m. Monday. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has already declared a snow emergency and implemented a parking ban starting at 2 p.m. On Sunday, preparing the city for substantial disruption.
Although the majority of campus activities will be suspended, certain operations will continue with modifications. Dining halls plan to remain open, though hours will be adjusted; a detailed list of storm hours is available here. The George Sherman Union will remain accessible despite the closure of its retail operations, while City Convenience and the BU Bookstore will be closed. Checquers on the Medical Campus will also be closed on Monday.
Impact on Students and Academic Activities
The closure will affect students across all three campuses. Medical, Physician Assistant, and Graduate Medical Sciences students assigned to inpatient services or clinics are expected to be present if possible. However, students assigned to outpatient services, including those at the Goldman School of Dental Medicine (GSDM) on externship, should confirm their schedules with their course directors or the clinical site’s policy.
All University Libraries will be closed on Monday. Charles River Campus libraries will close on Sunday at 6 p.m., while the Alumni Medical Library will maintain regular hours on Sunday, from 10 a.m. To 6 p.m.
Transportation and Campus Services Disrupted
Campus transportation will also be significantly impacted. The BU Shuttle’s Hyatt route will operate on Sunday from 7 a.m. To 7 p.m., but late-night service will be suspended. No BU Shuttle service will be available on Monday, with late-night service resuming at 10 p.m. FitRec and the Boston University Children’s Center will both be closed on Monday.
Temperatures during the snowfall are expected to range from the low 30s to the low 20s. University officials are reminding students and staff to take precautions against the cold; safety tips are available here.
Preparing for Severe Weather
The university’s decision to close campuses reflects the seriousness of the approaching storm. The combination of heavy snowfall, strong winds, and potential coastal flooding poses significant risks to travel and safety. The closure allows students, faculty, and staff to avoid unnecessary risks and prioritize their well-being.
Boston University’s emergency closing policy, detailed here, outlines the procedures for campus closures and the responsibilities of essential personnel. The university will continue to monitor the storm’s progress and provide updates as needed.
The next official update regarding campus operations is expected Monday afternoon, following an assessment of storm impacts and road conditions. Stay informed by checking the BU Today website and official university channels for the latest information.
Share this information with your Terrier community and stay safe during the storm.
