Last updated 7/3/26 1:00 p.m.

At the end of June, students and employees received information that UW–Madison campus buildings are experiencing higher than normal temperatures and humidity due to a broken chilled water line. 

The campus is still open and operating, but many buildings will be warmer and some will be temporarily closed to the public until repairs are complete and will not be cooled at all, including several CALS-managed spaces:

• Agricultural Hall
• Agricultural Engineering Hall
• Henry Taylor Hall
• Hiram Smith Hall
• Stock Pavilion
• 445 Henry Mall
• McArdle Building

Most college administrative offices will be affected by the public closure of Agricultural Hall. Please e-mail or call your contacts in those offices to make alternative arrangements for any activities originally scheduled in Ag Hall.

Facilities, Planning & Management crews are working on short-term mitigation measures as well as a long-term fix. They estimate the closure will be approximately four weeks, and changing weather conditions do not affect this estimate. Everyone can save energy during this period by lowering blinds and turning off lights in unused spaces.

Building managers should be your first point of contact for any facility questions. Contact your supervisor or HR representative with questions about your job duties or remote work.

Read detailed information, and a companion FAQ, which was sent to all students, faculty and staff and is available in multiple languages. This includes details about custodial services and mail and package delivery for closed buildings.