Weather

COMMUNICATION

How We Make Inclement Weather Decisions (and How You’ll Hear About Them)

Winter weather in Kansas can change quickly, and we know it can create uncertainty about weekend plans. Our priority is always the safety of our church family while doing our very best to gather whenever possible. Here’s what you need to know about how we decide, when we decide, and where we communicate updates when inclement weather is in the forecast.

How We Decide

When weather threatens our regular schedule, we carefully evaluate several factors:

  • Parking lot conditions – Is it safe for people to arrive and walk?

  • Main road safety – Are surrounding roads reasonably passable?

  • Snow timing and accumulation – How much snow is expected, and when will it start and stop?

Based on these factors, we may adjust our service schedule (reducing to one or two services) or, in more severe situations, cancel in-person services and move fully online.

Our goal is to balance safety with our desire to gather. Because weather forecasts can change, we try not to make decisions too early unless the severity of the storm clearly requires it.

When We Decide

We monitor the forecast closely throughout the week and especially heading into the weekend.

  • We typically do not cancel earlier than Friday night.

  • We reassess conditions Saturday at 7:00pm and again Sunday at 5:00am before making a final call.

The more severe and certain the weather, the earlier we will communicate decisions.

No matter the situation, we always encourage everyone to make the safest choice for themselves and their family, whether that means attending in person or joining us online.

Where We Communicate

Once a decision is made, we communicate quickly and clearly through multiple channels:

  • Website homepage

  • Text messages

  • Church App featured card

  • Churchwide email

  • Facebook and Instagram

  • Electronic Messaging Center (street sign)

  • Enews email (sign up here)

If weather is uncertain, please check the website and your email/text messages before leaving for church.

What to Expect

If we adjust the schedule, we’ll clearly share:

  • Service times

  • Kids ministry plans

  • Online service options

If we cancel in-person services, you can expect:

Our Heart

Your safety is our priority. Whether you join us in person or online, we want you to feel confident, cared for, and connected. During winter storms, we also encourage everyone to look out for neighbors—especially those who are elderly or vulnerable.

Thank you for your flexibility, grace, and understanding as we navigate unpredictable weather together. We’re grateful to walk through every season with you.

Stay safe and warm,
Westside Family Leadership