When snow starts falling and icy roads turn dangerous, the decision to close your business isn’t just about protecting operations — it’s about protecting people. Clear, proactive communication with employees and customers is critical during inclement weather, helping everyone stay safe, informed, and connected.
In this post, we’ll explore practical, modern ways to notify both your team and your customers about weather-related closures, so you can navigate severe conditions while maintaining trust and minimizing disruption.
When it comes to keeping employees informed, timing and clarity matter. Here are practical ways to communicate effectively before and during severe weather:
Before weather conditions worsen, send a proactive email or discuss expectations in a team meeting. This is a good opportunity to:
Keep employees informed as conditions evolve. Whether you follow local school district closures or rely on internal criteria such as snowfall amounts or road conditions, regular updates help employees plan ahead and feel supported.
Use multiple communication channels to ensure everyone receives the message. Common options include:
If you commit to notifying employees by a specific time or through specific channels, consistency is key. Delayed or last-minute updates can create confusion, frustration, and unnecessary safety risks.
Are you uncertain if you can require employee attendance on inclement weather days? What about pay? See what our experts have to say >>.
When severe weather impacts your operations, timely and accurate communication helps preserve customer trust and reduce frustration.
Here are effective ways to keep customers informed:
Google is often the first place customers check for business hours. Log in to your Google Business Profile and update your hours of operation to reflect the closure.
Use the “Special Hours” feature or post an announcement in the updates section to inform customers about the weather-related closure and any additional details, such as rescheduled appointments or extended promotions.
Record a clear voicemail outlining the closure, anticipated reopening, and instructions for rescheduling, refunds, or questions.
Notify your email subscriber list or SMS contacts with a concise subject line, such as “Closed Today Due to Weather.” Include important details, like reopening times and how to contact your team for questions.
Share updates on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn to reach your audience where they’re most active. If your business operates during extended hours, consider posting multiple updates throughout the day.
Use a banner, pop-up, or updated hours of operation on your homepage to ensure website visitors see the closure information.
For walk-in traffic, display a clear, visible sign explaining the closure due to inclement weather.
Today’s technology allows businesses to communicate quickly and consistently during weather-related disruptions. Mass messaging platforms, mobile alerts, and automated notifications reduce confusion and ensure employees and customers receive accurate information in real time — without relying on outdated phone trees or word of mouth.
RELATED: 12 ways area business owners communicate with their team during bad weather >>
Inclement weather can be unpredictable, but your communication strategy doesn’t have to be. At Axcet HR Solutions, our health and safety consultants are here to help you craft policies, establish communication plans, and ensure compliance with evolving safety regulations. Whether it’s improving your notification systems or ensuring your workplace is prepared for winter storms, we’ve got you covered.
Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can support your business in navigating weather-related challenges with confidence and care.
As early as reasonably possible. Many employers set a target notification time (for example, by 6 a.m.) and communicate updates if conditions change overnight. Early notice helps employees plan for safety, childcare, and commuting.
Yes. A “heads-up” message acknowledging the forecast and outlining when a final decision will be made reduces uncertainty and builds trust — even if the business ultimately stays open.
Segmented messaging is critical. If some employees can work remotely or certain locations remain open, use targeted communication groups rather than a single blanket message.
Typically, no. Relying on a single channel increases the risk that someone misses the message. Most employers use at least two methods (for example, text and email) to ensure timely delivery.
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