Severe Weather & Earthquake

Thunderstorms

Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Tells you when and where severe thunderstorms are likely to occur. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Is issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.

Tornados

Tornado Watch: Indicates tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to the NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information. Be prepared to take shelter.

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the tornado. Take shelter immediately.

In a tornado:

  • Take shelter in the interior of the lowest level of the building. Avoid windows and large, open rooms. If possible, get under a sturdy desk or table.
  • Protect your head with your arms.
  • If caught outside, lie flat in the nearest ditch, ravine or culvert with hands and arms shielding your head.
  • If in an automobile, abandon the vehicle and follow guidelines for outdoor shelter.

Everyone should pay attention to weather conditions, listen to the radio and television for weather alert information. Information is available from Baltimore radio stations to include WBAL-AM 1090 and television stations WMAR-TV 2, WBAL-TV 11, WJZ-TV 13 and WBFF-TV 45.

Information from the university will be available on the Emergency Alert webpage.

Earthquakes

If you are inside:

  • Duck under a desk or study table, or brace yourself in a doorway.
  • Stay away from windows as well as appliances, and heavy objects that could fall on you (e.g., bookcases, wardrobes, desks, heavy pictures/mirrors, etc.).
  • Be aware that the electricity may go out and the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may activate.
  • DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS.
  • Stay indoors until shaking stops.

If you are outside:

  • Move into an open space, away from electrical lines, trees, street lights, and buildings if possible.
  • Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits, and alongside exterior walls.
  • Ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury.

After an earthquake:

  • When the shaking stops, look around to make sure it is safe to move. Immediately exit the building.
  • Move away from the building. Give first aid when appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call Campus Safety & Security (410-516-4600 or 911) for assistance.
  • Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for the latest emergency information.
  • Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

REMEMBER–expect aftershocks; do not re-enter a building. Beware of falling debris or downed electrical wires.