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SFU Burnaby cancels in-person, remote classes amid dangerous heat wave

Burnaby public schools also closed
Jess Balzer
Jess Balzer
SFU one
Simon Fraser University.SFU

Simon Fraser University has joined Burnaby public schools in closing down due to the record-breaking and dangerous heatwave currently hitting B.C.

The university announced last night (June 27) on Twitter they would be cancelling in-person and remote classes. Any exams also scheduled for today, in-person and virtual, will also be rescheduled. 

The university is also encouraging staff to work from home when possible. 

The Vancouver and Surrey campuses have air conditioning, according to a school announcement while the following Burnaby buildings have cooling and study areas for students: 

  • Blusson Hall
  • Saywell Hall
  • Shrum Science Centre - Chemistry
  • Maggie Benston Centre
  • Applied Sciences Building
  • West Mall Centre
  • South Science Building
  • TASC 1
  • TASC 2
  • Discovery 1

"All other buildings on Burnaby campus do not have cooling systems. If you are able to work from home, you are encouraged to do so," the school says. 

"If you are scheduled to be in a building on Burnaby campus that does not have a cooling system, please contact your professor/supervisor about available options to study/work from home or from another location."

Forecasts are calling for temperatures as high as 42 C this afternoon with cooler weather not expected until Wednesday. 

Public schools in Burnaby were also cancelled last night out of an abundance of caution.

“With extreme weather, out of an abundance of caution all schools in the Burnaby School District will be closed for instruction for students on Monday June 28," reads a post by superintendent Gina Niccoli-Moen on the school district website Sunday. “Environment Canada is warning that record-breaking temperatures are resulting in a dangerous long-duration heat wave that will last through Monday.

"I recognize the added inconvenience this may pose for families during what has already been a challenging time. Over the weekend District staff have been closely monitoring the extreme weather temperatures and the resulting heat levels within school buildings. The decision to close was made after careful consideration.”

- With files from Chris Campbell, Burnaby NOW