RE: Hurricane Hilary
To: Campus Community
August 18, 2023
California issued an advisory on Hurricane Hilary on Thursday, warning of significant impacts on the state over the weekend and early next week.
Hurricane Hilary has developed into a category 4 hurricane and is expected to make landfall Sunday, sweeping through southern and central California as a tropical storm and making its way northward through to Oregon.
What does this mean for us?
According to the National Weather Service, Merced is expected to receive rain and wind beginning Sunday evening and through Tuesday, which could result in potential flash flooding. Areas south of Madera and in the Sierra’s will be most heavily impacted, though Merced County will also be impacted by this storm.
This will affect our immediate community, the many students traveling from Southern California to move in for the fall semester, and the beginning of the semester next week.
Work Modality
Supervisors are requested to be as flexible as possible with employees and the potential for hardship if the current storm forecast for the central valley shifts to be more impactful for our area. If temporary remote work is an option, please make arrangements directly with your employee (no leave or time off is necessary should you agree to allow telecommuting on a temporary basis).
Housing Services | Move-In
Housing Services advises students and families to review weather forecasts for their move-in date & time and adjust travel plans as needed. Additional move in appointments have been added to the housing portal for students currently scheduled for Monday, August 21st and Tuesday, August 22nd to choose a new Saturday or Sunday move in appointment. Students are free to delay housing move-in without penalty or loss-of-assignment for up to 21 days. If you choose to delay your arrival, notify Housing Services via email at housing@ucmerced.edu. Housing operations, including check in locations, parking, and other resources can be found on our move-in page. Information on our office locations, hours, and contact information can be found Housing’s contact page.
Welcome Back Week Events
Multiple events, including Scholars Bridge Crossing, Bobcat Pawrade, Blue & Gold Day and Fall Welcome are scheduled for early next week. Should these or any other events need to be rescheduled you will receive an email and UC Merced Connect message and information will be posted on university social media. Please keep an eye out for any change in scheduling.
Be Hurricane Ready
- Register for local emergency alerts: UCM Alert, Merced County’s Citizen Alert Emergency Notification System, Mariposa County, Stanislaus County, Madera County, Fresno County and Yosemite
- Take Action Today, Understand Forecast Information, and Stay Protected During Storms
- Monitor your location for potential hazards and travel conditions [Merced | Fresno | Yosemite National Park | Sequoia and Kings Canyon]
- Use the Perimeter App to stay updated on Merced County road closures, shelter sites, and mandatory evacuation areas
High Wind Advisory
High winds are anticipated with this weather event. The high winds and rains could make travel difficult, cause unsecured objects to become airborne, and lead to downed trees and power lines. Please be alert as you travel and/or make your way around campus.
Please report any emergencies, campus damage or hazards to Police Dispatch at 209-228-2677. Please review severe weather procedures available on the Emergency Preparedness website and visit the National Weather Service for up-to-date weather information.
Be prepared.
UC Merced Emergency Management
