MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS News) - Middle Tennessee State University is joining the long list of institutions adjusting to the brutal winter weather gripping Rutherford County. University officials announced that MTSU will shift to remote operations on Monday and Tuesday, Jan. 26–27, with only essential staff expected to report to campus. The decision comes as temperatures plunge and forecasters warn that the region will see little to no melting in the days ahead.

Faculty members will move all in‑person classes to remote instruction for both days and will communicate their plans directly to students. Online courses will continue as usual. For employees, each department will determine which staff members are considered essential and which are expected to work remotely, notifying them accordingly. Those who provide essential services but feel unsafe traveling are encouraged to contact their supervisors before attempting to commute.

University leaders say they will reassess conditions and announce plans for Wednesday and the rest of the week once they have a clearer picture of how the storm evolves. Right now, the outlook isn’t promising. Monday’s high is expected to reach only 22 degrees, with a brief climb to 34 on Tuesday—the only day temperatures rise above freezing. Highs return to the low 30s on Wednesday and Thursday before dropping back into the 20s next weekend. With that kind of forecast, officials don’t expect much thawing, and icy conditions could linger well into the week.