At the University of North Carolina, we are located in Wind Zone III which is considered to be a High Risk location. From June 1 to November 30, an emergency plan should be in place. A tornado is a violently rotating column of air with wind speeds that can be significantly higher than design wind speeds in modern building codes. Tornadoes usually happen in spring and summer but they can occur anytime in any part of the country. Sometimes hurricanes spawn tornadoes. Wind speed during a tornado can reach between 135 mph and 165 mph.
A hurricane is a tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 74 mph or greater. They have a low-pressure center that creates strong winds and rain. Hurricane wind speed can reach between 110 mph and 130 mph. More hurricanes have occurred in Florida than any other state, while Texas is second. Every state on the Gulf Coast and bordering the Atlantic Ocean is susceptible to hurricane damage. Between 1950 and 2011, hurricanes caused 3,102 deaths.
Implement Shelter in Place Procedures for windstorms such as a hurricane or tornado, or if there is an active shooter in your building, in many cases, remaining in place is recommended. Wireless Weather Alerts (EX. NOAA, Weather Underground ) are offered for your device via the Play Store for a small fee or buy a weather radio.
- Seek a small, interior windowless room on the lowest ground level of your building where there is not a flooding concern: bathrooms, empty closets and storage rooms. For more information on how to plan, read “Family Emergency Plan.”
- Do NOT open windows or door to relieve pressure. This increases the pressure acting on the interior of the building and the risk of building failure.
- Keep your safe room free of clutter so that it can be entered quickly.
- Wait for notification from emergency personnel before you leave the building.
- List all Shelter in Place areas in the Emergency Action Plan.
- You will need a basic supplies kit which can be modified for work and home.
