A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from the base of the thunderstorm down to the ground. Tornadoes are capable of completely destroying well-made structures, uprooting trees, and hurling objects through the air like deadly missiles. Wichita Falls, Texas sits at the bottom of what meteorologists call "tornado alley". Tornados can occur at any time of day or night and year-round. However, Tornados are more likely in the months of March - June.
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| Looks like a funnel | Can happen anytime |
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| Winds up to 200+ MPH | Can happen anywhere |
Tornado Watch: Be Prepared! Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss emergency plans. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. Acting early helps save lives! Watches are issued by the Storm Prediction Center for counties where tornados may occur. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.
Tornado Warning: Take Action! A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. There is imminent danger to life and property. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. Warnings are issued by the Norman National Weather Service office. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area that may be impacted by a tornado.
- Before a Tornado
- During a Tornado
- After a Tornado
Be Weather-Ready: Check the forecast regularly to see if you're at risk for tornadoes. Listen to local news or check the Norman National Weather Service website to stay informed about tornado watches and warnings.
Sign up for MSUAlerts: The number one way to receive an emergency alert from MSU Texas is through an MSU Alert. Visit MSU ALERT for more information on how to sign up and keep your information up to date.
Download MSU Safety App: Safety starts with you! Download the MSU Safety app available on the Apple app store and the Google play store. The app lets you have access to critical information right in your hand when it matters most.
Know What to Do: When a Tornado Warning is issued know what to do and where to go in your building. A list of severe weather refuge areas can be found down below.
Build or Re-Stock Your Kit: Have critical items to help you survive before help arrives. During large-scale disasters, help could be delayed.
In the event of a Tornado Warning on campus, take these emergency directives to increase your chance of survival:
General Safety Precautions: If you receive an MSUAlert or Tornado Warning, read all of the information. Take your phone, keys, university ID, and wear close-toed shoes. Stay away from windows and exterior walls. Move to the most interior part of the building.
Stay Weather-Ready: Continue to listen to local news and the National Weather Service to stay updated about tornado watches and warnings.
In the Dorm: Go to the storm safe area in your residence hall if you receive an MSU Alert or Tornado Warning. If a tornado is approaching and you need to take action, see the "Tornado" Procedures in Residence Halls" tab.
Around the University: Move to the building's storm safe area or an interior area in the building away from windows and open areas. Shelter-in-place! Assume the "duck & cover" position. Remain in the safe area until the warning expires or emergency personnel have issued an "all clear" signal.
Outside: Go inside a sturdy building immediately. Sheds and storage facilities are not safe. Follow around the university tornado procedure.
In a Vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe! The best course of action is to drive to the closest building and seek shelter. If you are on campus and driving and a tornado warning is issued park in the nearest space and seek shelter. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine.
Stay Informed: Continue to listen to local news or the National Weather Service to stay updated about tornado watches and warnings. Multiple rounds of thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes are possible during severe weather outbreaks.
Contact Your Family and Loved Ones: Let your family and close friends know that you're okay so they can help spread the word. Text messages or social media are more reliable forms of communication than phone calls.
Follow Emergency Personnel: Listen to university officials and follow their guidance. Watch for hazards and damages. Contact MSU PD if you see a down powerline. Stay out of damaged buildings. Help will be on the way.
Help Your Fellow Mustangs: If you come across people that are injured and you are properly trained, provide first aid to victims if needed until help arrives.
- Killingsworth Hall
- Legacy Hall
- McCllough-Trigg Hall
- Pierce Hall
- Sunwatcher Village
- Sundance
