Governor Kelly Delays Opening of State Office Buildings in Shawnee County Thursday Morning due to Winter Storm

TOPEKA – Due to safety concerns regarding the winter storm projected to hit north-central and northeast Kansas this evening into tomorrow morning, Governor Laura Kelly has issued a Declaration of Inclement Weather for Shawnee County, ordering state office buildings in Shawnee County to delay opening until 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 16.

“Due to the potential for hazardous road conditions, we are delaying the opening of state office buildings in Shawnee County on Thursday morning,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Please exercise extreme caution if driving this evening or tomorrow morning, give road crews enough space to do their jobs safely, and stay safe and warm.”

The declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, February 15, and lasts through 9:59 a.m. on Thursday, February 16. Several inches of snow combined with strong, 30-40 miles per hour winds are expected, making travel hazardous.

This declaration applies to all non-essential state employees in Executive Branch agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction who work in offices located in Shawnee County. During the period of Inclement Weather, essential employees are required to report to work as normal. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record Inclement Weather Leave during the period of Inclement Weather.

This declaration does not include employees in the Board of Regents, Regents Institutions, the Judicial Branch, nor the Legislative Branch of government. Their designated representative will make a separate declaration for those employees if appropriate.

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