Emergency Response - Tornadoes

Background Information

Tornadoes can occur throughout the year, but Ohio’s peak tornado season is April through July. 

A tornado watch means weather conditions are favorable for a tornado to develop.

A tornado warning means a funnel cloud or tornado has been sighted by a qualified spotter or has been detected on radar.

If weather conditions are threatening, seek safety immediately and take necessary actions to protect life and property. Listen to a NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weather radio or local TV or radio station for continued weather reports.

You can prepare for tornado emergencies by keeping a NOAA weather radio or battery-powered radio in your office and by identifying your best tornado shelter before a warning occurs.

Action Steps

What to do in a tornado warning:

  • Remain calm.
  • If notified of a tornado warning, PROCEED IMMEDIATELY to a basement or the lowest level of building.
  • USE ELEVATORS IF YOU HAVE A DISABILITY OR ARE HELPING A PERSON WITH A DISABILITY.
  • Stay away from windows, glass, stairwells, and unsecured objects.
  • Stay tuned to a media outlet for notification of an “all-clear.”
  • Do not contact the Ohio University Police unless an emergency situation exists.
  • In the event of an emergency, call 593-1911 to contact Ohio University Police.

If outdoors in a tornado warning:

  • SEEK SHELTER IMMEDIATELY.
  • Lie in low-lying ditch, culvert, or at low land levels.
  • Protect your face and head.

What to do in a tornado watch:

  • Be prepared to seek shelter.
  • Determine the location of the nearest shelter.
  • Listen to TV or radio for further weather reports.
  • Realize the next step could be a warning.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Advise others of severe weather conditions.
  •  If weather grows threatening, SEEK SHELTER even if you hear no tornado warnings.