“As spring approaches and we participate in more outdoor activities, people should be aware the weather conditions can rapidly change,” said Beth Glaus, director of Southeast DPS. “Thunderstorms can develop quickly and spawn tornadoes with very little warning. Just a little bit of preparedness can result in improved outcomes after a storm.”

March 6-10 is National Severe Weather Preparedness Week. The State of Missouri is conducting a statewide tornado drill on Tuesday, March 7. Southeast will participate and will do its monthly test of tornado sirens during the statewide drill. The National Weather Service (NWS) urges people to take this week to practice severe weather planning.

There are protocols DPS follows on campus in the event of inclement weather. When a tornado warning is issued for the area, outdoor sirens will sound to alert people outside to take shelter. DPS will also implement SEAlert notifications at that time to alert faculty, staff and students via text message. Follow up messages will be sent to relay any additional information about the warning and to cancel the warning.

“The greatest concern is the protection of life,” Glaus said. “When one thinks about how little water it takes to float a vehicle, or how far lightning can strike, or how quickly a tornado can develop with remarkable strength, it seems obvious that a few tips put in place before a storm can result in avoiding injuries or even death.”

There are a few key things to remember on campus. DPS urges everyone to know the difference between a watch and and warning. They suggest to have a weather application downloaded or utilize a NOAA Weather Radio (NWR).

DPS also recommends have a communication plan for friends and family.

When seeking shelter, always go to the lowest level of the building away from windows and exterior walls. 

You can find more on being prepared for severe weather on the National Weather Service (NWS) website and on the Southeast Department of Public Safety (DPS) website.

There are several training opportunities available in the area. Southeast is hosting a Skywarn Spotter Class on Tuesday, March 7. It’s free to attend and requires registration on the NWS Skywarn Spotter website. The NWS is also recruiting student volunteers at the Paducah, Kentucky location to help with projects and learn more about the NWS office. Information on that program can be found on the NWS Student Volunteer website.