Tornados and Severe Thunderstorms

Last updated: 01/09

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Severe thunderstorms are possible, continue normal activities and monitor the situation.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

Severe thunderstorms are occurring.

• Keep people indoors and away from windows until the severe storm passes. If you are outside, seek shelter immediately.
• Report injuries and damage on campus to the IUPUI Police at 911 from a campus phone or 317-274-7911 from a non-campus phone. Notify your departmental administrative office.

Tornado Watch

Tornados and severe thunderstorms are possible — continue normal activities but monitor the situation.

Tornado Warning

An actual tornado has been identified in the area by spotters and/or radar.

• If in the warning area, seek shelter immediately. Stay away from windows and exterior doors. Basements, interior hallways on the lower floors and small interior rooms on the lower floors offer the best shelter.
• Know the location of your nearest shelter in advance.
• Do not open windows; this can increase damage to the building.
• Report injuries and damage to the IUPUI Police at 911 from a campus phone or 317-274-7911 from a non-campus phone. Also, notify Campus Facilities Services of damage at 317-278-1900 and your departmental administrative office.
• If in a vehicle, get out and seek shelter in a sturdy building. If a building is not available, lying flat in a depression such as a ditch or ravine offers some protection.

Thunder and Lightning

If you hear thunder less than 30 seconds after seeing a flash of lightning, seek safe shelter immediately.

Weather Sirens

Marion County operates tornado sirens which are tested every Friday at 11:00 AM. Upon hearing the siren for a weather emergency, follow the steps above for a tornado warning. Marion County's criteria for sounding the sirens can be found at http://www.indy.gov/egov/city/dps/dhs/Pages/home.aspx.

Weather Closing Information

Weather closing information is available from the sources listed on the Emergency Information Resources page of this booklet, which includes primary information sources such as www.iupui.edu/prepared, the IUPUI Hotline / Campus Status line at 317-278-1600, and local media.

Weather Radios

A NOAA Weather Radio can receive weather information broadcast by the National Weather Service (NWS). While many models are on the market, the features listed below are what to look for to provide maximum safety:

• Tone Alarm — the radio will activate when the NWS sends out a signal that there is a weather emergency
• SAME — the radio can be customized for specific counties
• Battery Backup — if the electricity is off, the radio will continue to work
• Public Alert Device — the radio meets standards set forth by the Consumer Electronics Association