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The latest satellite image from Environment Canada shows Earl on track to pass through the Maritimes. (Environment Canada)

Even with the matter of that hurricane grinding its way up the east coast of North America, residences are prepared for the thousands of students scheduled to move in on Sunday.

"By Sunday, the storm should have passed. The challenges will depend on whether there’s power or not," says Heather Sutherland, assistant vice-president, ancillary services. "I hope that if the power is out, it won’t last long. We’ll deal either way, since a manual check in is possible."

Students and parents have been advised not to travel through adverse weather to make check in on Sunday.

"We understand — just try to keep in touch with us," says Ms. Sutherland.

What if the new arrivals come hungry? No worries.

"We’ll be running a food service," adds Ms. Sutherland. "The storm’s impact may affect the number of available staff, but even if the menu has to be simplified, there will be food service on campus."

Some residences, specifically Howe Hall, Risley Hall and Gerrard Hall, have generators.

"We’ve bought extra water and granola bars to keep at the front desk and extra flashlights for residences without generators," says Linda Wright, Director of Residence Operations.

Student leaders, front desk staff and varsity athletes will all turn out on Sunday to help frosh with the move in, says Ms. Wright.

Residence managers had already relaxed the hours for early baggage drop off by students who had pre-arranged this service in an effort to avoid activity on Saturday, when the weather is expected to be intense.

"We’ve had a few tropical storms on moving weekend before," says Ms. Sutherland. "But this probably rates right up there. It is what it is — and we’ll deal with it."