Severe Weather
There is a tornado shelter location for each building on campus. In the event of potentially severe weather, it is recommended that each occupant have access to a portable AM/FM radio, or cellular phone with emergency alert notification in order to follow weather updates.
Severe Weather Announcements
- Public warning signal (radio, TV; there will be no siren unless there is danger of tornado).
- Tune in radio to local commercial broadcast station
- AM radio: KYSM 1230, KTOE 1420;
- FM radio: KMSU 89.7, KXLP 94.1, KDOG 96.7, KEEZ 99.1, KYSM 103.5;
- Television: WCCO ch. 4, KEYC ch. 12 (10 on cable), KARE ch. 11, KSTP ch 5, and KMSP ch 9, to find out if the weather has caused a cancellation of Minnesota State University, Mankato classes
- Public warning signal NOAA Weather Radio, or cell phone weather applications.
Watch vs. Warning
What does it mean?
| Warning | Watch | Advisory | Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weather hazard is occurring, imminent or likely | Risk of weather hazard in the near future | Weather hazard is occurring, imminent or likely | Risk of weather hazard in the next 7 days |
| Poses a threat to life/property | Could pose a threat to life/property | Could cause significant inconvenience | Could pose a threat to life/property |
| Take Protective Action | Have a Plan of Action | Use Caution | Prepare a plan of Action |
Severe Weather Information
- Tornado warning signal (3-5 minutes steady blast on Civil Defense Siren), also alert will be disseminated to University Security from National Severe Weather System.
- Tornado warning announcement will be broadcast to the University Emergency Public Address System.
- All persons should proceed to pre-designated tornado shelter areas. It is suggested that departments take and listen to a portable battery operated AM/FM radio to accompany you to the appropriate shelter so you are informed of weather updates, such as Tornado warning expirations or extensions.
- Evacuate to the shelter areas – don’t be sightseers!
Tornado Warning Action:
- Remain calm.
- Seek indoor shelter in the lowest level possible, in an interior room or hallway. Think “down and in”.
- Avoid elevators, windows, doors, and large free landing structures like auditoriums and cafeterias.
- Crouch near the floor or under heavy, wall-supported objects.
- Dover your head with your hands and arms. Watch out for flying debris.
Weather Links
Campus Tornado Shelter Locations
