Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], The weather is worsening and my commute is getting difficult; could I leave by [time] and continue from home? Thanks, [Name].
By email
How to Email Your Boss About Bad weather
When your workplace expects things in writing, a short email about bad weather keeps a clear record. Put the key facts up front.
Say what you need, briefly
Snow, storms or flooding make the commute risky. Frame it around getting home safely and offer to work remotely.
Structure it as a short email
In an email, lead with a plain subject line, put the day and leaving time in the first line, add one line on how your work is covered, and keep a courteous sign-off. An email should be shorter than a chat message, not longer.
Example messages
Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], Services are being reduced because of the storm; I'd like to head off by [time] to get home safely. Thanks, [Name].
Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], With the snow I'd rather leave by [time] and work the rest of the day remotely; I'll stay reachable. Thanks, [Name].
Mistakes to avoid
Don't write a long paragraph or bury the ask. Put the day and leaving time in the first line so it's seen at a glance.
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This page shares wording ideas, not legal or HR advice. Follow your own employer's time-off policy.
Common questions
Is bad weather a fair reason?
Yes, when it affects a safe commute. Tie it to getting home.
Email or a quick message?
Use email where a written record is expected; a chat message is fine elsewhere.