General Information
A Severe Thunderstorm consists of radar or storm spotter indicated thunderstorms which produce hail ¾ inch or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceeding 58 miles per hour. Once this criterion is met, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning will be issued for our area. Lightning frequency is not within the criteria set by the National Weather Service to define a thunderstorm as severe.
When a warning is issued by the National Weather Service, information contained within that warning will include where the storm was located, what towns will be affected by the severe thunderstorm and the primary threat associated with the severe thunderstorm warning.
During a severe thunderstorm, we may experience heavy rain, high winds, flash flooding, frequent lightning, and tornadoes.
Actions to Take:
Before a Thunderstorm:
Monitor local weather and keep an emergency kit containing essential emergency items in your residence halls, offices, and vehicles. This may include flashlights, batteries, radios, medications, first-aid kits, non-perishable food items, work gloves, and vital records.
Maintain and monitor a weather radio for your office or home. Weather radios are available for free in the Campus Safety office.
Consider rescheduling events and activities if thunderstorms are in the area.
During a Thunderstorm:
When a thunderstorm is approaching our area, seek shelter indoors and away from glass and on the lowest possible level of a building. Share information about the approaching storm with your peers and co-workers. If you are in a vehicle, avoid driving in heavy rains if possible and stay clear of high water on roadways. Report any extreme conditions such as potential tornadoes, straight-line winds, and damage to Campus Safety and the National Weather Service.
Report injuries to Campus Safety, or call 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency.