severe weather

Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado

All lightning can be deadly. When you hear thunder or see lightning, go indoors. In addition to potentially deadly lightning, a severe thunderstorm also has wind greater than 58 mph (50 knots), and/or hail 1” or larger, and/or a tornado.

A watch is defined as conditions are favorable for the development of severe weather in the watch area. Pay attention to broadcasts, and prepare to take action.

A warning is an urgent announcement that hazardous weather is occurring, or is imminent. Take immediate action to stay safe.

Indoors

In the event of a TORNADO WARNING, or if a funnel cloud is reported:

Outdoors

Hail

Lightning

If you hear thunder:

Hurricane

Unlike other natural disasters, a hurricane is usually preceded by hours or days of fore notice and warning, allowing you to prepare.

Before the hurricane

During the hurricane

After the hurricane

Extreme Heat

Looking for places to stay cool on campus during hot days? Check out MIT’s Cool Spots!

Winter Storm and Extreme Cold

Earthquake

Indoors

In modern buildings, falling down, or being struck by falling objects causes most earthquake-related injuries. In the event of an earthquake, and you are inside a building DROP, COVER and HOLD ON immediately.

Outdoors

When aftershocks stop: