Severe Weather

The UT Police Department tracks severe weather alerts that may impact campus safety.

All available means of communication would be used to let the campus community know about severe weather events that could impact safety (i.e. tornado). You also should monitor weather conditions on your own to make decisions about traveling anywhere in an automobile or by foot.

Decisions to close the campus, cancel events, or alter operations due to weather would be communicated at www.utk.edu and through campus and local media. In the event of serious threats or closure of the university due to severe weather, information will be distributed through the UT ALERT text messaging system.

About Watches and Warnings

The National Weather Service issues various watches and warnings related to impending weather conditions. When a "watch" is issued, that means that the accompanying weather, such as a tornado or severe thunderstorm, is possible in the area affected by the watch. When a "warning" is issued, that means that the accompanying weather is imminent, and you should take appropriate action immediately.

While the instance of severe weather to the point of jeopardizing safety is rare in our area, it is important to familiarize yourself with the appropriate actions to take in the event of a severe weather emergency.