University of Maryland, College Park Hit by Steam Outage

Lack of hot water and heat impacts campus amid winter weather

Jan. 28, 2026 at 2:15pm

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The University of Maryland at College Park is experiencing a significant steam outage that has reduced heat in many buildings as well as eliminated hot water access across campus. Facilities management is working to identify the source of the problem and restore services.

Why it matters

The steam outage comes during a period of cold winter weather, making the lack of heat and hot water a major inconvenience for students, faculty, and staff. The university has already canceled classes due to the impact of a recent winter storm, adding to the disruption.

The details

According to the university's website, facilities management teams are actively working to resolve the steam outage throughout the morning. Residential students will receive additional guidance, and dining halls are also affected by the lack of hot water. A full list of impacted buildings has not yet been released.

  • The steam outage began on the morning of January 28, 2026.
  • Classes were canceled on January 28 due to the continued cleanup from a recent winter storm.

The players

University of Maryland, College Park

A public research university located in College Park, Maryland, part of the University System of Maryland.

Facilities Management

The department at the University of Maryland, College Park responsible for maintaining and repairing campus infrastructure and buildings.

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What’s next

The university has encouraged students and staff to limit time outdoors and follow emergency guidelines to stay warm while the steam outage is addressed.

The takeaway

This steam outage highlights the importance of reliable infrastructure and emergency preparedness on college campuses, especially during extreme weather events that can compound disruptions to daily operations.