Severe Weather

FLOOD

Should a section of campus flood, call 911.

Some cautionary tips:

• Roads may be undermined, so drive with care.
• Use flashlights in flooded buildings. Do not use switches until they have been checked for shorts.
• Do not use flames or lanterns in flooded buildings.
• Report any downed wires, broken gas or water mains to 911.
• Avoid drinking water until you are certain it has not been contaminated. 

TORNADO/SEVERE THUNDERSTORM

Watch

A tornado or severe thunderstorm watch means severe weather is possibly approaching. Continue normal activities but continue to monitor the situation.

Warning

If the approaching severe weather poses an immediate threat to the area, the watch may be elevated to a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning. You should take the following steps:

• Notify the building occupants of the severe weather warning.
• If it is a thunderstorm warning, stay indoors and away from windows until the storm passes. Report injuries to 911. When calling, provide the following information:
  • Building name, number and/or location
  • Type of emergency
  • Condition of the victim
  • Any dangerous conditions
• If it is a tornado warning, you should seek shelter in a safe haven immediately.
• If you are in a vehicle, seek shelter in a sturdy building. If a building is unavailable, a depression, such as a ditch or a ravine, offers some protection.
• Basements, interior hallways on the lower floors and small interior rooms on the lower floors offer the best shelter.
• After the danger has passed, immediately report any injuries to 911.
• Immediately leave a badly damaged building and do not attempt to return to the building until directed to do so.
• Do not attempt to turn utilities or equipment on or off.

WINTER WEATHER

Always use caution in extreme cold/winter weather conditions. Please refer to the MSU Weather Plans for additional information.