Severe Weather & Disaster Preparedness

Natural disasters and weather emergencies can occur at any time. Staying informed and being prepared reduces the impact on life and property.

Visit the websites below for emergency preparedness information.

Be Prepared

Consult the information below to stay informed and prepared should a severe weather event happen on LR Hickory, Asheville or Columbia campuses.

  • Thunderstorms & Tornadoes

    Pay attention to your email and other devices that receive LR Alert (RAVE) messages for information.

    • Severe Thunderstorm Warning
      Immediately seek shelter indoors away from windows. Pay attention to alerts and warnings. Understand that lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards.
    • Tornado Watch
      Remain inside and alert to the possibility of tornadoes. Conditions are good for a tornado, but there have been no sightings.
    • Tornado Warning
      Take cover inside. Go to the lowest, center-most room possible. Avoid windows, corners, doors, and outside walls. Cover arms and neck if possible. A funnel cloud or tornado has actually been sighted.
  • Hurricanes

    Pay close attention to official notifications from the university administration. Watch local weather broadcasts and heed the warnings and directives of the National Weather Service and state agencies. Visit Ready.gov in advance of storms for preparedness information.

    Plan ahead by making available any provisions you would need to live up to several days without power—food (e.g., dry goods that don’t require preparation), bottled water, batteries, flashlights, etc. Ensure that you have reliable means of transportation, including sufficient fuel, in the event of an evacuation.

  • Earthquakes

    If an earthquake should occur, avoid windows, corners, doors and outside walls. Cover arms and neck if possible.

    Based on its severity or the condition of buildings in the aftermath, an earthquake may warrant an evacuation of buildings. In an evacuation, faculty, staff, and students should do the following:

    • Locate the nearest exit that can be used safely (follow exit signs).
    • Immediately assist individuals with disabilities or otherwise in need of assistance.
    • Do not use elevators.
    • Notify other rooms, classrooms, offices, bathrooms, etc., of the evacuation.
    • Assemble away from buildings.
    • If you are in a class, please stay with your class so all people can be counted.