Severe Weather

The Office of Public Safety monitors the National Weather Service for severe weather alerts that effect the Evansville area and the University.

Tornado Warnings

In case of a Tornado Warning, which means a funnel cloud has been spotted in the area, the Security Officers will alert all classes and meetings in academic facilities that are not covered by the Ace Alert System and advise everyone to take shelter. A list of shelter areas for Academic Facilities, Residential Halls, and Villages housing is maintained on the Shelter Locations and Areas page. Basic guidelines to follow in event of severe weather or tornado:

  • Move to the safest area of the building you are in. See the Shelter Locations and Areas page.
  • Stay out of stairwells to avoid wind tunnel effects.
  • Attempt to warn others but do not put yourself in danger.
  • STAY AWAY FROM WINDOWS, DOORS, AND OUTSIDE WALLS, PROTECT YOUR HEAD.
  • After the tornado has passed call 6911 if emergency help is needed.
  • Do not leave the building unless a fire ensues or you are given the all clear.
  • If in your vehicle and you see a tornado, exit your vehicle and move away from it and take shelter or get to a low area and lay down.

Closings or Delays

Decisions regarding school delays or closures shall be announced in one or more of the following ways:

  • Ace Alerts: The University of Evansville's emergency alert system sent to cell phones, campus IP phones, email, campus computers with Alertus software installed, and University televisions.
  • TV and Radio: Tune into local radio and TV broadcasts when weather looks severe.

Students, faculty, staff, and visitors are urged to use personal discretion when deciding to travel in inclement weather and asked to contact the appropriate persons in case of an anticipated delay or absence from work, class, or event.

Flooding

Major flooding in our area is unlikely. However, minor flooding caused by stopped drains, broken water mains or major, multiple rainstorms, could occur and result in area flooding. The Office of Public Safety will monitor the National Weather Service and other emergency advisories to determine necessary actions such as evacuations and cancellation of classes. In the case of imminent flooding, always follow the instructions of University personnel.

Outside: Use caution when walking through standing water.

  • Always wear shoes as hidden hazards (i.e. broken glass, debris, sprinkler head, etc.) could cause serious injury.
  • Submerged exterior electrical outlets or the danger of fallen power lines can electrify wet areas.
  • While most water may be rain water, many times it can be a mixture of sewer water and run-off. Care should be taken to not swallow or allow water to enter cuts or scrapes.
  • When driving an automobile, avoid driving through flooded areas as the actual depth can not always be determined.

Inside: If a building has flooding, avoid flooded areas. Disconnect electrical equipment if it can be done safely. If possible, secure vital equipment, records, and valuables (move to higher, safer ground). Avoid possible falling objects such as wet ceiling tiles and seek a dry area.