Tornado Safety Information

Severe weather, especially tornadoes, can develop quickly in Oklahoma. Knowing what to do—before, during, and after a tornado—is critical to your safety.

What to Know About Tornadoes

Tornadoes can reach wind speeds up to 300 mph
They range in width from 50 yards to over a mile
Forward speed averages 25–40 mph
Damage paths can be sudden and unpredictable

What to Do During a Tornado

If You’re Outdoors

Seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building, preferably with a basement
If no shelter is available, lie face-down in a low area, protect your head with your arms
Stay away from trees, vehicles, and areas prone to flooding

If You’re in Class

Instructors will dismiss class and direct students to:
- Lower levels, interior hallways, or basements
- A nearby, structurally sound building if necessary

If You’re at a Campus Event

The event will be stopped immediately
Move to a protected ground-floor area or basement, away from glass

⚠️ Avoid gyms, auditoriums, or any large, open space with a flat roof unless nearby service areas (hallways, coolers, restrooms) are available.

Tornado Sirens

City of Ada uses outdoor sirens to signal tornado danger
Tested Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. (unless severe weather is expected)
A steady siren means take cover immediately
No "all-clear" siren will sound — monitor media for updates

Weather Alerts & Radios

The National Weather Service (NWS) provides 24/7 weather updates
Special alert radios can broadcast tornado and emergency warnings
Keep a battery-operated AM/FM radio with you in case of power outages

Local Radio Stations for Weather Updates

KADA – 99.3 FM / 1230 AM
KYKC – 100.1 FM
KTLS – 106.5 FM
KKFC – 105.5 FM

Campus Tornado Shelter Locations

Seek shelter in interior hallways or rooms away from glass and exterior walls, on the lowest floor available.

Refuge Areas – ECU Students, Faculty & Staff

Administration Building – First floor hallway
Education Building – Basement
Fentem Hall – Basement
Linscheid Library Annex – First-floor break room
Linscheid Library – West wall, second floor
Norris Field Stadium – East dressing room

Refuge Areas – Open to the Public

Horace Mann – First-floor hallways

⏰ Once the sirens sound, it is too late to travel to a remote shelter.
Identify your nearest protective area in advance.

Pet Policy in Shelter Areas

Pets are strongly discouraged in designated storm shelters
If necessary, pets must be in an airline-approved carrier
Owners must stay with their pets at all times

After a Tornado

Stay with your group and wait for emergency personnel
Provide first aid if possible
Stay clear of downed power lines, broken glass, and unstable structures
Do not use matches or lighters due to potential gas leaks
Stay calm and listen to local radio or emergency responders for further instructions