Hurricanes

With the help of the National Weather Service and a private weather service (experts who provide the university with personalized daily updates on tropical weather activity in the Gulf of Mexico during Hurricane season), the university will continuously monitor tropical weather patterns in the Gulf regions as well as coordinate with local and state officials.

Before

  • Have a plan. Be prepared to evacuate quickly and know your routes and destinations.
  • Make sure you read and follow all official University emergency alerts
  • Stay tuned to the National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center updates, and local media weather coverage
  • Make sure your emergency contact and storm evacuation information is up to date
  • Check your emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply, especially medications or other medical supplies. Keep it nearby.
  • Follow directions from emergency officials
  • Contact your family members to let them know what is happening

Click here for more information on how to prepare for a hurricane.

During

  • Remain indoors.
  • Do not open exterior doors or windows.
  • Refrain from using alcohol or other impairing substances.
  • Follow directions from officials.

    After

    • Remain inside until officials say it’s safe to leave. If you must go outside, be cautious of fallen objects, downed power lines and other hazards
    • Contact family members by any available means and advise you are okay
    • Await further instructions from University officials.
    • Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding.

    Staying Safe During a Hurricane

    • Stay indoors.
    • Don’t walk on riverbanks or in flood waters.
    • Use flashlights in the dark if the power goes out. Do NOT use candles.
    • Continue to follow Loyola Emergency Communications and listen to local area media coverage for the latest information and updates.
    • Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage or contain dangerous insects or animals.
    • Turn off the power and water mains if instructed to do so by local authorities
    • Don't walk, swim or drive through floodwater. Just six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over and two feet will float a car.
    • If caught on a flooded road with rapidly rising waters, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
    • Stay out of areas subject to flooding. Underpasses, dips, low spots, gulleys, canals, ditches and ravines can become filled with water.