Tornado Weather is an atmospheric condition typified by hot, humid days, southerly winds and darkening skies. Huge greenish-black thunder clouds usually appear an hour or two before tornadoes form. Rain, and frequently hail, precede and follow tornadoes. The greatest frequency of tornadoes occurs between 3PM and 7PM. When close by, a tornado sounds like a jet airplane taking off.

A Tornado is recognizable by the funnel shaped cloud, which in most cases moves in an easterly direction, usually from the southeast to the northeast, at about 30 miles per hour. It spins rapidly, with winds exceeding 300 miles per hour on the edge of the tornado and extending toward the earth from the base of a thundercloud. When it touches down it can be as much as 300 yards wide. Its destructive force results from the speed of its exterior winds and the vacuum in it's interior, creating large differences in air pressure.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means that there is the possibility of severe thunderstorms. Remember, tornadoes occasionally develop in areas in which a severe thunderstorm watch or warning is in effect.

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means that thunderstorms, damaging winds and hail are expected. It often precedes the issuance of a tornado watch.

A Tornado Watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes. Remain alert to signs of approaching storms seek shelter if threatening conditions develop.

A TORNADO WARNING REQUIRES
IMMEDIATE ACTION!

See Safety Rules Below

A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar and Saint Mary's College is in its path !!!

The Saint Joseph County Emergency Management Tornado Warning System will activate a siren. For tornadoes, the siren will issue a steady tone for three minutes. (A wailing sound indicates an enemy attack -- not an all clear.)

When a tornado warning is issued, you should:

• Move to your pre-designated safety area or nearest substantial building.
• Go to the basement or interior corridor.
• Avoid windows, large rooms, auditoriums, or gymnasiums. 

The siren will not issue an all clear. The signal comes from the Weather Bureau via radio or television. Saint Mary's College Security Department will issue the all clear message on campus.

Sirens Tests are conducted between 11:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. the first Thursday of every month. They consist of an one minute steady tone, one minute of silence and an one minute wailing.