Weather Warning Alerts and Procedures

The campus will be informed of a Tornado Warning or other inclement weather (i.e. heavy winds, hail, etc.) through the following methods, for further information on the following communication methods, click here.

• RAVE text messaging system. If you are a University student or employee you can receive these text messages by signing up here. You must opt in to receive these alerts
• Alertus Beacons located throughout the University Buildings will sound, flash lights, and have a scrolling message on the emergency to be warned about - these are loud, but necessary
• Procedures on notifications of campus closings and delays due to inclement weather can be found here.

Tornado:

Tornado Watch notification is issued when conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes. Under watch conditions stay informed by listening to radio or television.

Tornado Warning notification indicates that a tornado has been sighted and poses a definite threat to a given area. If the warning is for your area, you should take shelter immediately!

What to do during a Tornado Warning:

• Move to the pre-determined shelter location marked with a green Tornado Shelter sign (above) and designated in your Department or Building Emergency Plan (or click here)
• If unable to get to a known shelter location, attempt to get to the lowest level possible and as interior as possible (away from all windows and exterior doors)
• If possible, get under something sturdy and cover your head
• Share notification with others and assist anyone with disabilities, if possible
• If in a vehicle or outside, seek shelter in a sturdy building. If a building is not available, lying flat in a depression, such as a ditch, offers some protection. Be aware of potential flooding if this is the case
• Beware of flying debris; do not call 911 unless you require immediate emergency assistance

Thunderstorm:

Severe Thunderstorm Watch means severe thunderstorms are possible, continue activities and monitor the situation.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning means severe thunderstorms are imminent, capable of causing significant damage due to high winds or hail.

What to do during a thunderstorm warning:

• Floods:If outdoors, go inside immediately; if you hear thunder, you are within striking range of a storm
• Remain under cover until 30 minutes after the final clap of thunder

Snow Storm:

Winter storms and extreme cold affects all areas of the country with the ability to knock out heat, power, and communication services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time. 

What to do during a winter storm:

• Before any winter storm hits, you should have an emergency kit containing items you may need to sustain during winter weather. 
• Stay indoors during the storm. If you must go out, ensure you walk and drive carfully.
• Keep dry.
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
• CHECK HERE for more winter tips!

Flash Floods:

Flash Floods could be caused by tornados and thunderstorms, especially in low lying areas.

What to if flash flooding is possible:

• Move to higher ground - do not wait for instructions to move if flash flooding is a possibility (can occur within seconds)
• Do not drive or walk into flooded areas - even small amounts of water can wash out a roadway and anything on it
• If you are in a flooded are on campus and need assistance, call KUPD at 913-588-5030 from any phone or 911 from landline campus phones