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Hurricane, Tornado and Severe Weather Response

The Department of Environmental and Occupational Safety constantly monitors severe and changing weather conditions. Whenever weather conditions become extreme to the point that they could affect our campus, a decision to postpone or cancel classes may be announced via the Campus Alert system. When in doubt, listen to the area television and radio stations prior to coming to the University. Announcements will also be posted on the website at www.valdosta.edu. If weather becomes severe after the University opens, impending closing announcements will be made.

Tornado/Hurricane Warning

Whenever the National Weather Service issues a tornado or hurricane warning, the Emergency Coordinator will monitor its path, and if the University is near or within the projected path, will begin the process to notify the campus to take every precaution necessary to ensure that all students, faculty, staff and visitors remain safe and informed. Valdosta State University does not have specified shelters on campus.

During immediate hazardous weather, such as a tornado, persons already inside should shelter in place since it will be safer to remain in place than to venture outside to move to another area.  Persons outdoors should move inside the nearest building and seek shelter in the interior of the building away from doors and windows.

In the event of slow-moving hazardous weather, such as a hurricane, persons should plan to shelter in their residences.

  • Always listen to and follow instructions given by University Police and other University officials.
  • Request students, faculty, staff, and visitors not to leave the University until an all-clear announcement is issued by University Police.
  • Students, faculty, and staff should plan ahead to determine the best area of shelter (such as interior walls away from windows and doors) during a tornado.
  • Do not return to your office or classroom until an all-clear announcement is issued by University Police.

Terminology

Weather Watch - is issued by the National Weather Service when severe weather conditions are possible in the area.

Weather Warning - is issued by the National Weather Service when severe weather has been sighted in the area.