In case of severe weather, such as a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning, the safety of the university community is a priority. In the event of an emergency, the best immediate source of information will be the Activity Line/Weather and Class Status, 978-6633, option 2.

» See a complete list of tornado shelters on the WSU main campus.

Tornado Season

Tornadoes can occur at any time of the year. In the southern states, peak tornado occurrence is in April through June, while peak months in the northern states are during the summer. Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 and 9 p.m. but have been known to occur at all hours of the day or night.

Watches versus Warnings

Many people confuse the meaning of a tornado "watch" and tornado "warning" issued by the National Weather Service. Here's the difference:

• Watch: Tornadoes are possible in your area; remain alert for approaching storms.
• Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. If a tornado warning is issued for your area and the sky becomes threatening, move to your pre-designated place of safety.

The WSU campus houses one of Sedgwick County Emergency Management's tornado sirens. During inclement weather, sirens will only sound in the event of a tornado warning. The siren is loud enough to be heard in any part of any building on campus and is tested each Monday at noon provided skies are clear. In the event of a tornado warning, move to the lowest level of the building and seek shelter immediately. Every building on campus has a designated tornado shelter area marked by a red signs with directions.

Members of the university community should consider the buildings on campus where they spend the most time, and locate the recommended shelters to save time in case of a weather emergency.