Wednesday, January 04, 2023

A tornado WATCH is in effect for New Hanover County and the surrounding region until 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4. A "watch," as opposed to a "warning," indicates severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. It does not mean that tornadoes will occur – only that they are possible.    

We are sharing this possibility now to provide ample time for preparation should the watch escalate to a warning. Please ensure that your cell phones are charged and powered on, with the volume activated, so that you will receive any tornado alerts issued by the National Weather Service and/or campus.   

In the event of a tornado warning, the university will activate the UNCWAlert emergency notification system, which includes voice and text messages. During a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately. Move to an interior hallway or a room on the lowest floor of the building, avoid windows and take shelter beneath a desk or heavy furniture. Wait for an all-clear message from UNCW. Updates will be shared when available.   

The university will continue to monitor weather conditions in collaboration with the National Weather Service and state and local agencies until the storm moves out of the region. If conditions change, the university will convey any necessary updates via campus email, the UNCW homepage, and the university's Facebook and Twitter feeds.