05/05/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/05/2022 09:53
WACO, Texas (May 5, 2022) - The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado WATCH for a large portion of Central Texas, including Waco and McLennan County, effective until 6 p.m. tonight (Thursday, May 5, 2022). This means that tornadoes - along with damaging winds and hail - are possible in and near the watch area.
If the NWS issues a Tornado WARNING, Baylor, the City of Waco and McLennan County will activate their tornado sirens, and the University will send a Baylor Alert text and email to the campus community alerting you to take immediate action.
At this time, we ask that you please review and discuss your emergency plans. Baylor's tornado safety procedure guide is available here. Check supplies, make sure your phone is charged and check the safe space in your home, apartment or residence hall. In residence halls, Severe Weather Assembly Areas are identified on Building Emergency Plan maps throughout each building. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching.
In the Event of a Tornado Warning:
There are multiple ways the City of Waco, McLennan County and Baylor University alert their respective communities in case of a tornado:
Safety Procedures:
Indoors
Residence Halls
Outdoors
Individuals with mobility/impairments or physical disabilities:
Supervisory personnel and course instructors are responsible for identifying and escorting individuals with mobility impairments or physical disabilities located in their offices/facilities or classrooms to safety in the event of a tornado warning.
The elevators may be used to transport individuals with mobility impairments or physical disabilities and their escorts to a safer location. Visually impaired and hearing-impaired individuals may be escorted down the stairs but may require assistance in moving in crowded staircases and in finding a safer location.
In the event of a power failure, individuals who are unable to use the stairs and their escorts should move to an interior location without windows and call the Baylor University Police Department (254-710-2222) who will notify the appropriate emergency personnel with the location.