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On campus during today's severe weather? Here's what to know

April 5, 2023
<p>A pond forms underneath a tree due to flooding caused by heavy rain flow in the East neighborhood, photographed on Apr. 4, 2023.</p>

A pond forms underneath a tree due to flooding caused by heavy rain flow in the East neighborhood, photographed on Apr. 4, 2023.

Severe weather today

Much of Lower Michigan, including East Lansing, is under a tornado watch until 4 p.m. Wednesday.

According to the National Weather Service, or NWS, the area is expected to face occasional thunderstorms throughout the morning and afternoon with a possibility of damaging wind gusts, large hail and isolated tornadoes. 

The Lansing area is also under a flood advisory due to excessive rain until 3:15 p.m. Wednesday. NWS advises residents to be careful on roadways and to turn around when encountering flooded roads.

What to do in the event of a tornado

Tornado sirens tend to go off when a tornado warning is issued. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been spotted or a radar picks one up.

In this case, MSU Department of Police and Public Safety has emergency guidelines in place for students on campus to follow.

  1. Seek shelter in a sturdy structure immediately if a tornado warning is issued or threatening weather approaches.
  2. Avoid windows and exposed staircases. 
  3. Avoid large roofs and ceiling areas. 
  4. If you are caught outside, seek shelter in a parking structure, building or a low-lying area to hide in. 
  5. Stay in shelter until given the all clear. 
  6. Tornado shelters are indicated on emergency evacuation maps posted throughout buildings near entrances. 

Expected flooded areas

NWS predicted that the Red Cedar River will exceed its minor flood stage on campus through today, closing some parking lots and sidewalks. MSU Infrastructure Planning and Facilities notified students of several areas that are expected to be closed. 

  • The lower level of Parking Ramp 2 on Auditorium Road.
  • Parking Lot 62 near north Spartan Stadium.
  • Parking Lot 67 near Jenison Field House.
  • The sidewalks north of the Business College Complex.
  • The sidewalks and bike paths between the Spartan Statue and the Kellogg Center.
  • The sidewalks along the Red Cedar River at the Beal Botanical Garden.
  • The sidewalks along the Red Cedar River between the Alumni Memorial Chapel and the Farm Lane bridge.
  • Red Cedar Road north of Spartan Stadium.
  • Chestnut Road near the Demonstration Hall field.

Even after river water height is reduced, MSU says these areas may still remain closed as crews work to clean up any debris left behind. 

Avoiding flooded areas

  • Do not attempt to travel on walkways, roads, lots or ramps that are closed as water depth and speed over surfaces can be deceptive.
  • Take your time when traveling throughout campus, allowing extra time to reach your destination.
  • It may take more time for larger vehicles to stop in wet conditions. Make eye-contact with vehicle operators if you are a pedestrian before entering the roadway.
  • Look for water intrusion in a building and report occurrences immediately.

Students living on campus should report building issues to Residence Education and Housing Services. Other building or campus issues should be reported to IPF by calling (517) 353-1760.

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