Flooding
Major Flooding
Major flooding on the campus could be the result of torrential rains or a major water main failure. If you encounter a major flood:
- Evacuate from affected buildings and areas immediately. See the “EVACUATION” page for more information
- Notify MIT Police at 617-253-1212 (x100 from a campus phone)
- Follow instructions from emergency responders
- Use extreme caution around appliances or electrical receptacles near the water
In the case of minor, weather related flooding, MIT Emergency Management will monitor the reports and information shared by the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to determine necessary action, such as evacuation of areas and cancellation of classes.
Minor Flooding
Minor or area flooding of the campus is a more likely scenario. This could be the result of rainstorms, a water line break, or a backed-up drain. If you encounter a minor flood:
- Notify MIT Police at 617-253-1212 (x100 from a campus phone)
- Secure vital equipment, records and chemicals by moving to higher or safer ground (if safe to do so)
- Shut off all electrical equipment (if safe to do so)
- Secure all laboratory experiments.
- When able, notify the Facilities Operations Center at 617-253-4948
- For guidance on contaminants (asbestos, sewerage, etc.), contact the EHS Office at 617-452-3477 or visit their website
- Wait for instructions from emergency responders
- Do not return to the area unless it has been deemed cleared by emergency responders