Oklahoma State University - Tulsa
Oklahoma State University - Tulsa

News Alert:

Campus Safety - Severe Weather

Severe Weather

For information regarding OSU-Tulsa's policies for reporting campus closings due to severe weather, visit OSU-Tulsa News.

Tornado Safety

The following information is offered as a guideline to help determine what action to take in the event of severe weather.

  • Tornado Watch: This means conditions are such that storms capable of producing a tornado may develop.
  • Tornado Warning: This means that either a tornado has been sighted or it is highly probable that one will develop. A warning will be signaled by the storm warning sirens.

The tornado take cover signal is a three- to five-minute steady blast from the large sirens located near campus. If the sirens sound again, it is further warning - not an all clear signal. The OSU-Tulsa Police will use the intercom system to relay information or give directions if necessary.

Seek immediate shelter in a basement or lower floor, interior corridors or interior rooms such as bathrooms. If you are in an open area such as a gymnasium, auditorium or warehouse, go to the wall farthest from windows or glass, crouch down against the wall and protect your head with your arms. Stay away from windows and exterior doors. If caught outside, lie flat on the ground face down, preferably in a ditch or depression. Stay alert for flash floods.

Shelter in place

In the event of a tornado warning, OSU-Tulsa University Police will aid students, faculty, staff and visitors with instructions via campus loudspeaker system or in person. Unless directed otherwise, seek shelter in the following areas in each campus building:

  • Main Hall: Lower level of the 1100 wing, either at the end of the corridor or in the restrooms.
  • North Hall: Conference Center (includes the B.S. Roberts Room and North Hall 153, 155 and 156).
  • Auditorium: Restrooms outside the auditorium or the Conference Center as described for North Hall.
  • Administration Hall: First floor restrooms and other rooms away from windows.
  • Helmerich Research Center: First floor interior restrooms.
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