Today, our region is expecting severe weather, including the possibility of strong thunderstorms capable of producing damaging straight-line winds and tornadoes. Please stay alert and informed throughout the day, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours.
Tornado Season in Minnesota
Tornado season in Minnesota typically runs from April through October, with the most severe storms often occurring in April and May. While tornadoes can happen at any time, the peak hours are usually between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Tornado Watch vs. Tornado Warning
- Tornado Watch
A watch means that weather conditions are favorable for tornado formation. Stay alert and monitor local news, weather radio, or emergency alerts for updates. - Tornado Warning
A warning means that a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. Emergency sirens will sound with a steady tone for at least three minutes. Take immediate shelter when a warning is issued. Residence Life and Campus Safety will also notify students.
What To Do During a Tornado Warning
- Seek shelter immediately in a basement or designated safe area.
- If you’re in a multi-story building without basement access, move to a lower-level interior hallway.
- Stay away from windows, glass, and exterior walls.
- Keep a battery-powered radio or phone with you for updates.
- Remain sheltered until an “All Clear” is given by Residence Life or Campus Safety.
Campus Storm Shelter Locations
| Residence Hall | Shelter Location |
| Brother Leopold Hall | Basement, away from windows |
| Brother William Hall | Basement |
| Gilmore Creek Hall | First-floor hallway, close all room doors |
| Hillside Hall | Basement hallway, close all room doors |
| Heffron Hall | Basement of Heffron or Saint Mary’s Halls |
| Saint Joseph Hall | Basement |
| La Salle Hall | Basement |
| Residencia Santiago Miller | Bathroom/shower room or Brother Leopold basement (RSM Residents have access to the Brother Leopold basement) |
| Bishops Hall | First-floor hallway, close all room doors |
| Skemp Hall | Basement of Heffron or Saint Mary’s Halls |
| Saint Benilde Hall | First-floor hallway, close all room doors |
| Saint Yon’s Hall | Basement |
Questions or Concerns?
Please contact the Office of Campus Safety at (507) 457-1703 with any questions about tornado procedures or shelter locations.
