Status

Currently, there is no emergency at Washington University. In the event of an emergency, this site will be regularly updated to provide information to the University community.

Where to go > Severe Weather

Tornadoes

The Midwest is prone to violent weather. Broadcast radio, television and Internet weather sites issue alerts.

Before a tornado:

• Develop a calling tree with names, numbers, and locations. This tree should include at least one person from each floor or area in your department.
  
• Keep at least one flashlight with extra batteries on hand.
  
• Keep at least one battery-operated radio on each floor to use only in an emergency.
  

During a tornado:

• Evacuate to the basement, an inside hallway, or an interior bathroom on the lowest level possible with a flashlight and radio.
  
• Avoid places with wide-span roofs.
  
• Once evacuated, get under heavy furniture.
  
• Use arms to protect head and neck.
  

After a tornado:

• Help injured or trapped persons
  
• Turn on the radio, television or go to the Internet (www.wustl.edu) to get the latest emergency information and instructions
  
• Use the telephone for emergency calls only.
  
• If you smell gas or chemical fumes, leave the building
  

Weather Resources

• Washington University's Environmental Health and Safety severe weather information
  
• The Weather Channel
  
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service
  
• Federal Emergency Management Agency

 

Hotline

Where to go

Alerts