Pensacola, FL: 20 25’ N Latitude

87 14’ W Longitude

Hurricane Season: June-November

Tropical Storm: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph.

Hurricane: An intense tropical weather system with a well defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.

Category 1: 74-95 mph winds

Category 2: 96-110 mph winds

Category 3: 111-130 mph winds

Category 4: 131-155 mph winds

Category 5: > 156 mph winds

Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours.

Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 234 hours.

Notification to Residents

The official information source for the University of West Florida is WUWF (88.1 FM), the university’s radio station. Weather updates will be provided on a regular basis during severe weather. Information regarding the cancellation of classes and /or university events will be broadcasted as decisions are made.

The Residence Life Staff will regularly notify students in the residence halls and apartments of the hurricane’s movement. Information will be distributed via posted fliers, email, voicemail, and door-to-door announcements. All efforts will be made to inform residents of weather conditions as promptly as possible.

An emergency toll-free number will be activated when it is determined that the storm will affect campus. The toll-free number is 1-866-UWF-NEWS (1-866-893-6397).

Leaving Campus?

In the event that a hurricane threatens the Pensacola area, the Resident Advisors will contact each resident to determine if the resident plans to leave campus or remain on campus for the duration of the storm.

It is vital that you let your RA know your plans. We need to know if and where you will be going if you leave campus. You should contact your parents and inform them of your whereabouts as well. If you plan to remain on campus, your RA or other Housing officials will inform you when/if it is necessary to move to the shelter.

Students choosing to leave campus assume full responsibility for their safety. Do not attempt to leave campus during the height of the storm.

Once The Shelter is Open

In the event that conditions reach a point to warrant the evacuation of the residence halls/apartments, the University Commons (Bldg. 22) will be opened as a hurricane shelter for students remaining on campus. Once the shelter is opened, residents in the Southside Halls and Village Apartments will be required to move to the shelter. University officials will determine if there is a need to move residents from Martin and Pace Hall depending on the strength of the storm.

In preparation for moving to the shelter, the following steps should be taken to secure your room and belongings:

· Close the windows and blinds.

· Pick up all items off the floor and take out the trash.

· Unplug everything except the refrigerator.

· Place valuables in your drawers and closet.

· Turn off the lights.

· Close and lock your door.

What To Bring To The Shelter

The commons will be staffed by university officials from the Office of Housing, the Office of Student Affairs, the Police Department, the Health Center, and Food Service. All individuals must sign-in at the commons Service Desk upon arrival.

Free food service will be provided on a limited basis for individuals staying in the shelter. Meal times will be posted.

The following items should be brought to the shelter:

· Bedding (Pillow/Blankets)

· Several changes of clothing

· Medication that may be needed during your stay

· Personal hygiene items

· Books/Cards/Games

· Flashlights/Batteries

· Snacks

The following items are not permitted in the shelter:

· Alcohol

· Candles/Oil lamps

· Pets

END