July 14, 2026
Due to the hot and humid weather forecast for the New England and Mid-Atlantic region Tuesday through Wednesday evening, the National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for the area.Â
Extreme heat and humidity can significantly increase the risk of heat-related illness, particularly for vulnerable populations. Please take appropriate precautions, including staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activities during peak afternoon heat, and using available cooling methods.
In addition, New England is expected to experience periods of high electricity demand beginning Tuesday, July 14 through July 15. During peak demand periods, reducing electricity use helps ease strain on the regional electric grid and can help lower the University’s future electricity costs.
We ask faculty, staff, and students to reduce electricity use by 4:30 p.m. on July 14 and July 15 to help lower campus energy demand during the peak period of 5 to 8 p.m. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to our collective energy savings.
The following actions can help reduce electricity demand:
- Turn off office lights and hallway lights that are not needed.
- Turn off unnecessary fans.
- Turn off computers, printers, and equipment that will not be in use.
- If you have an individual wall air conditioning unit, increase the thermostat setting to 78 degrees. Please also turn off any unneeded air conditioning units and keep doors closed in air-conditioned spaces.
- Close blinds and shades where possible.
- Unplug microwaves, coffee makers, or other appliances when practical.
Facilities Services may make minor adjustments to buildings with centrally controlled HVAC systems. Buildings that house laboratories or critical research activities generally will not be affected. If you experience heating or cooling issues in your building, please contact the Facilities Services Control Center at 401-874-4060.