South Dakota State University’s campus will close early Tuesday because of forecast blizzard conditions in the Brookings area.

A statement emailed to SDSU students and staff Monday afternoon said campus operations will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, because of the forecast weather. Operations are scheduled to resume at 8 a.m. Wednesday unless noted.

“All classes, on-campus activities and nonessential operations after 3 p.m. are canceled,” the statement said. “Essential personnel should only report to duty as directed by their supervisor.”

Officials say they are monitoring a winter storm watch that was issued for the Brookings area by the National Weather Service. The watch, which will be in effect from noon Tuesday through 10 a.m. Wednesday, calls for blizzard conditions with wind gusts up to 60 mph and a light glaze of ice accumulation.

The NWS warns that visibility may drop to less than one-quarter of a mile because of falling and blowing snow. It also warns that slippery sidewalks, roads and bridges along with strong winds are possible.

Campus officials are asking faculty and staff to travel “only if necessary” and to use “caution as conditions may deteriorate quickly.” They added that updates will be shared through official SDSU communication channels.