Last week was Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin (April 8-12, 2024). This annual event encourages residents to prepare for tornadoes and severe storms that frequent the state during spring and summer.

Two common alerts that may be issued are tornado watches and tornado warnings. It’s important to know the difference between the two and what actions you should take during each.

Tornado watch

A tornado watch is issued when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes/severe weather in and close to the watch area. During the watch, you should pay attention for further weather alerts and prepare to move to a place of safety if threatening weather approaches.

Use all available means to find out more emergency or severe weather information, including radio, television, weather alert radio, internet services, etc. On campus, neither an all-employee communication nor WolfPack alert get distributed for tornado watches.

Tornado warning

A tornado warning means severe weather or a tornado is occurring. Typically, the siren system will be activated. On campus, students should:

• Follow the directions of employees who are designated to provide emergency instructions, including WolfPack alerts, which will be sent when the storm is a risk and when it is all clear.

• Move to a safe area such as an interior hallway or small interior room on the first floor (Madison College facilities do not have basements). Stay away from windows, exterior doors, and rooms with large roofs, such as gymnasiums.

• Do not use elevators.

• Protect your head and face. If possible, get under a table or other sturdy structure.

• Remain calm and quiet.

• Be alert to dangerous conditions that may exist after an all-clear signal, such as on-going storm conditions, downed electrical lines, broken glass or other damage.