Inclement Weather | BEAP

Inclement Weather

The University of Georgia recognizes the potential threat that severe weather, specifically tornadoes, poses to the large, dispersed, and active University environment. Memorial Hall will operate in accordance with the University of Georgia’s Inclement Weather and Emergency Closing Procedures.

Tornado Watch

A TORNADO WATCH is issued by the National Weather Service when tornadoes are possible in the area.

  • This means no tornadoes have been sighted but conditions are favorable for spawning tornados. Normal activities need not be interrupted during a watch unless threatening skies are observed. No action is necessary except to be prepared to act appropriately if the weather is downgraded to a warning.

A TORNADO WARNING is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar in the area. 

  • Upon notification, everyone in Memorial should proceed to the tornado safe areas on the 1st If time permits, take your personal belongings and secure your work computer (log off and shut down to minimize damage and potential loss of data). Make an announcement in all occupied areas for individuals to move immediately, but without panic, down to the first floor. Do not use the elevators. Everyone should remain in the tornado safe areas until an “all clear” is given.

Inclement Weather Volunteers​

These Memorial Hall staff members will oversee area evacuations and safe area arrivals of all students, staff, and visitors in the building.

STAIRWELL ENTRANCE BY STANFORD DRIVELinden Dudley and ___________
PLAZA & HOOPER STREET ENTRANCES___________ and ___________
REED QUAD ENTRANCEEric Atkinson and ___________

Tornado Emergency Notification Methods

UGA’s Athens Campus has four outdoor tornado warning sirens which are activated by Athens-Clarke County during tornado warnings for the county. The outdoor tornado sirens are only intended to be heard by persons who are located outdoors. During an actual tornado warning for Clarke County, the sirens will sound for three minutes and then a 30-second pause will occur. After the pause, the sirens will sound again for three minutes with another 30-second pause. This sequence will continue until the warning is cancelled or expires. These sirens can be located at the State Botanical Gardens, on top of the Chemistry Building, at the end of Rogers Road, and on top of the East Campus Parking Deck.