Tornado Safety: What You Need to Know
The Texas Panhandle lies in the heart of “Tornado Alley,” where tornadoes and severe storms are a seasonal threat, especially from March through June. This guide provides essential safety information tailored for university students, faculty, and staff.
Tornado Watch vs. Tornado Warning
- Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for tornadoes. Be alert, stay informed, and prepare to act.
- Tornado Warning: A tornado has been spotted or indicated on radar. Take shelter immediately — your safety is at risk.
How to Prepare in Advance
- Know Your Safe Spots: Locate the nearest designated shelter or windowless interior space in the buildings where you live, study, or work.
If a Tornado Watch is issued, use that time to stay weather-aware and, if needed, relocate to a designated shelter. Once a Tornado Warning is issued, do not attempt to move between buildings — take shelter in your current location immediately.
- Stay Alert: Sign up for university emergency notifications. Use NOAA Weather Radio or trusted weather apps.
- Review Campus Emergency Plans: Participate in drills. Know where to shelter and how to access alerts.
What to Do During a Tornado Warning (On Campus)
- Shelter in Place — Do NOT Go Outside: When a tornado warning is issued, immediately take shelter inside the building you are already in.
Do NOT leave your current building to reach another one — even if it has a designated shelter. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly, and outdoor exposure during a tornado is extremely dangerous.
- Move to a Safe Interior Space: Go to the lowest floor, preferably a windowless interior room such as a hallway, restroom, or stairwell. Avoid areas with large roofs or glass.
- Stay Away from Windows and Exterior Walls: These areas are the most vulnerable to flying debris and collapse.
- Protect Yourself: Crouch low, cover your head and neck with your arms, backpack, or other shielding material.
- Monitor Official Instructions: Keep your phone nearby to receive emergency updates. Stay in place until you receive an official “All Clear.”
- Limit Phone Use: Conserve battery and avoid unnecessary calls or messages during an emergency.
Designated Tornado Shelters (During Business and Class Hours)
During official university business and class hours, the following buildings are designated as tornado shelters. If a Tornado Watch is issued and you are near one of these buildings, you may choose to relocate before a warning is issued:
- Virgil Henson Activities Center
- Natural Sciences Building
- Marmaduke Internet Innovation Center
- WTAMU Bookstore
- Jack B. Kelley Student Center
- Old Main
- WTAMU Amarillo Center
Important: Do not attempt to move to these buildings once a Tornado Warning is active. Shelter in place immediately in your current location.
The Jack B. Kelley Student Center and Old Main will be unlocked during a Tornado Watch, regardless of regular business hours.
After the Tornado
- Wait for official confirmation that it is safe to exit your shelter.
- Report any injuries, damage, or hazards to university emergency personnel.
- Avoid downed power lines, broken glass, and damaged structures.
- Let your family and friends know you’re safe.