Spring is just around the corner…

which means the potential for severe weather is looming.

As you have probably noticed, Arkansas weather can be unpredictable, but there are some ways that you can stay safe during severe weather season and stay ahead of the storm.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when navigating severe weather is the common lingo used by weather officials and the right way to respond

Severe Weather Watch

Severe weather watches mean conditions are favorable for severe weather to form. This does not mean that there is any immediate danger,

In the event of a severe weather watch, you should take the following actions:

  1. Review your weather plan, including tornado shelters within your community which are posted in common areas of every residence hall
  2. Consider altering plans to ensure that you have access to a safe space at all times and are not putting yourself in a position to be outside or in a vehicle should a warning be issued
  3. Actively pay attention to the weather through local news stations, even if it is not typical “news time”
  4. Identify multiple ways to receive weather alerts in the event that you are not near a television or radio
  5. Charge your electronic devices in the event there is a loss of power.

Severe weather warnings mean there is an active and immediate threat for dangerous weather, both observed via radar technology or confirmed visually.

Severe Weather Warning

In the event of a severe weather warning, you should take the following actions:

  1. Each floor has signage, usually near elevators, indicating the designated tornado shelter for your community. Please note that many of our buildings do not have basements, but don’t fret as you are still safe above ground in these tornado shelters
  2. Shelter in place until directed otherwise, but remember some alerts such as the RAZAlert system do not send out an all-clear message. More information will be distributed through the hall staff in your community.
  3. Think ahead in the event that the worst does happen – put on closed-toe shoes, take your cell phone charger, keys, ID, and debit/credit cards and/or cash, and a light sweater or jacket to your safe space.

In the event that you are not in your residence hall, please get yourself to the nearest building

Safety Notifications

In order to receive the most up to date information, all students are encouraged to subscribe to the RazALERT system to receive text, call, and email updates about the happenings around campus.

All students are automatically subscribed via email but are encouraged to visit the Emergency Communications page on the university’s Campus Safety website to subscribe to calls and/or text alerts.

Students can also receive weather specific alerts by following the National Weather Service Tulsa(@NWSTulsa).

RazAlert Sign Up