WEATHER

 

Oklahoma weather can be severe and difficult to predict. It is important you know that the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is in Oklahoma County so that you can interpret forecasts and warnings provided by the media and other sources.

Civil Defense And Siren Test

Oklahoma City maintains a citywide civil defense warning siren network that is used to signal imminent danger of tornadoes. It is tested every other Friday at noon as the weather permits.

 

Imminent Danger

A steady siren for three to five minutes means imminent danger. Be sure your family or roommates have a plan in place that identifies the closest suitable shelter space. Go to that space. Once the sirens sound, it is too late to seek shelter at a remote location.

 

All Clear Signal

Sirens DO NOT sound on all clear. This comes from the broadcast media. An all-clear signal will usually be given on the local radio stations (KGOU 106.3-FM, WWLS 640-AM, or KNOR 1400-AM). These stations may also be used for weather advisories and updates.

 

Tornado Or Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Issued by the National Weather Services (NWS) when conditions are favorable for the development of a tornado or severe thunderstorm.

 

Tornado Or Severe Thunderstorm Warning

Issued by the NWS when a tornado or severe thunderstorm has been sighted visually or detected by radar. The location, direction, and speed of movement of the storm are provided. Residents of the specified area should take immediate safety precautions.

When A Tornado Warning Is Issued

If a tornado warning is issued for the Oklahoma City area by the NWS, the public broadcast media (KGOU-FM 106.3; KNOR-AM 1400; WWLS-AM 64-; or any Oklahoma City television station), or the sounding of the sirens for three to five minutes:

 Proceed immediately to your designated shelter.

 To minimize danger from flying debris, close doors around the shelter area.

Remain in the shelter until the storm front clears the area or the public broadcast media provides an all-clear signal. It is recommend you take a battery operated radio or TV with you to the shelter.

 

Shelters For Tornado And Severe Weather 

If possible, upper-floor residents in the studios should arrange with downstairs neighbors for shelter on the ground floor. Bathrooms without windows, closets or interior hallways offer the best protection inside each apartment. Doors should be closed to protect against airborne debris, particularly glass and wood splinters. The most effective shelter is underground. You may choose to go to the underground storm tunnel accessible at the Student Union or through the College of Nursing. The tunnel may be reached by taking the stairs or elevator directly inside the west entrance of the Student Union or through the south entrance of the Nursing school (between the hours of 8am and 5pm Monday through Friday). The tunnel is accessible 24 hours a day through the west entrance of the Student Union by using your ID card. *If you have a spouse or other immediate family living with you, please contact the office manager so they can be granted 24 hour access to the Union.

Severe Thunderstorm

Wind gust of 50 knots (58 miles) or greater and/or hail at least three quarters of an inch in diameter.

Tornado 

A violent local storm with very high-speed winds rotating about a vortex with a funnel extending from the base of the clouds to the ground.

Funnel Cloud

A tornado-type funnel extending downward from the clouds but not touching the ground.

 

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