The first storm of the spring season arrived earlier than usual this year. The majority of these storms are thunderstorms and do not usually impact overall campus operations, but individual safety precautions may be warranted like:
- Postpone outdoor activities.
- Monitor the weather for local conditions.
- Find a sturdy building or get into a hard topped metal vehicle with the windows closed.
For more information visit http://safety.utk.edu/emergency-preparedness/severe-weather/.
Since tornadoes can form with little or no warning, the campus community should stay vigilant and know what to do in the event of severe weather.
If a tornado is spotted or a campus alert is issued:
- Do not leave the building; it’s best to seek shelter indoors.
- Warn others of the need to seek shelter.
- Go to an interior space low in the building that doesn’t have windows; ideally, the space should have two exits.
- Close the doors and stay inside until the all clear is given.
- After the tornado has passed, exit damaged buildings and proceed to another safe location. Report your condition and location as soon as possible.
For more information, visit http://safety.utk.edu/emergency-preparedness/tornado/
Monitor the National Weather Service and local media outlets and look for campus updates. Remember the National Weather Service warnings are based on the county level. The university monitors local conditions and issues alerts based on the threat to campus. If you haven’t signed up for UTAlert, you can do so at https://www.utk.edu/utalert/.