Tornado Watch
Posted May 19, 2025 at 8:41 pm
The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for the City of St. Louis until 3 AM Stay aware of changing conditions and additional watches and warnings. Be prepared to take shelter immediately when prompted.
Announcements
Monday Update
Crews are making great progress clearing debris from the Danforth Campus. This work will likely continue for the next several weeks. Some roadways around the Danforth Campus are still closed or partially closed. Please continue to avoid driving in the area if possible and check your route before heading out. Danforth Campus unit leaders will […]
May 2025 Tornado Recovery Resources
Employees impacted by the storm are encouraged to review the Emergency Conditions policy for guidance on work arrangements and operational needs.
Community Resources
The university has compiled a range of support services and resources available to faculty and staff who may be facing hardship due to the storm. Please visit HR’s Tornado Support & Resources page for more information.
Danforth Campus suffers moderate damage in St. Louis storm
The Danforth Campus of Washington University in St. Louis suffered moderate damage during severe weather in the St. Louis metropolitan area May 16. At approximately 2:45 p.m., the campus was hit by a possible tornado that damaged building roofs and concrete, took down multiple large trees that blocked roads, and triggered widespread power and technology outages. View the entire message on the Record.
A WATCH =
Be Prepared
A WATCH means conditions are favorable for severe weather. Stay alert—be prepared, not scared. KNOW WHERE TO GO!
Tips for a WATCH:
✔️ Stay weather-aware—monitor alerts – WashU Safe App, NOAA Weather Radio, TV, or trusted apps
✔️ Review your emergency plan and check your emergency kit
✔️ Identify your severe weather refuge area now: lowest level, interior room, away from windows
✔️ Be ready to take action immediately if a WARNING is issued
⚠️ Remember: A WATCH = Be Prepared. A WARNING = Take Action.
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News for now
WashU emergency conditions policy
This policy applies during emergency conditions that may include severe winter weather that has the potential to compromise life safety or significantly disrupt university operations.
WashU Safe app
The university safety app, WashU Safe, offers enhanced features such as Friend Walk, Mobile Bluelight, safety notifications, access to emergency procedures and MORE!
EPC and KMC program information
The Emergency Preparedness Coordinator (EPC) and Key Management Contact (KMC) program is a university-wide initiative, designed to help each department or school prepare to respond to emergencies on campus. Department managers should designate an EPC and KMC, who will attend trainings on how to assist with immediate response actions during an emergency. For more information click here. For upcoming training click here.
Planned events
Outdoor events that expect at least 1,000 attendees use the outdoor event emergency planning form. For indoor events that expect 500 or more attendees, use the indoor event emergency planning form to complete a plan.
Training
The focus of the Emergency Management Training Program is to provide appropriate and relevant training courses to personnel that may have roles and responsibilities in a disaster event. Learn more on the