How Alma College Is Handling the Cold Weather

ADITYA HIREMATH
PHOTOGRAPHER
STAFF WRITER

2/9/2026

As winter weather continues to affect campus life, Alma College students are experiencing firsthand how extreme cold, snow and ice affect their daily routines.

One of the most significant factors influencing how Alma College handles winter weather is the age of its campus. Many of the buildings were constructed decades ago, making it difficult for heating systems to run efficiently during periods of extreme cold.

“I think the school is handling the weather decently,” said Joseph J. Bizon (‘29) involved in STUCO his perspective reflects a broader sense of realism among students who recognize the limitations of an older campus.

Heating systems that were not designed for increasing extreme winters struggle to keep consistent temperatures across residence halls and academic buildings.

Usually noticing these issues most in the early morning and late evening hours. Despite this, many acknowledge that the challenges are structural rather than due to neglect.

“It’s an old campus and due to the weather the heating systems can’t be 100%, also with the snow and ice it is difficult to fully clear every walkway,” said Bizon.

Snow and ice collection present another major concern for students. While primary pathways are typically cleared quickly, smaller walkways and less traveled areas can remain slippery for longer periods.

This creates difficulties for students attending early classes or returning to their residence halls at night. Weather conditions can change rapidly, making it hard to keep every area consistently safe.

“But I do see that while there are active snowfall facilities is working to clear as much as possible,” said Bizon. Facilities staff are often visible during winter storms, salting sidewalks, plowing roads and responding to hazardous areas as conditions develop.

Their efforts prove that the college is actively responding rather than ignoring the problem. For many students, seeing these crews at work provides reassurance that safety is a priority even if conditions are not perfect.

“The college is doing what it can,” said Martell Mosley (’27). This sentiment captures a general understanding that winter weather is difficult to manage, especially when storms and temperature changes are sudden.

Students recognize that it is unrealistic to expect immediate solutions to every issue. However, acknowledgment of effort does not end concerns about recurring problems.

“The weather has been unpredictable and it’s understandable that they can’t fix every problem the moment it happens,” said Mosley. Unpredictability has made winter preparedness more challenging across campus.

Inside buildings, fluctuating temperatures can affect student comfort and concentration. These issues tend to repeat each year, reinforcing the need for long-term solutions.

“But there’s definitely a lot that needs to be put in place to prevent future problems,” said Mosley. Students have pointed to potential improvements such as upgraded heating systems, better insulation and improved drainage to reduce ice buildup. Addressing these infrastructure concerns could lessen the impact of winter weather over time.

Overall, students seem to agree that Alma College is making a genuine effort under difficult circumstances. However, many believe that balancing immediate responses with proactive planning will be critical as winters become harsher