USI earns National Weather Service StormReady certification

The University of Southern Indiana has been officially recognized as a StormReady university by the National Weather Service (NWS), highlighting the University’s commitment to campus safety, emergency preparedness and effective communication during severe weather.

The StormReady designation is awarded to institutions that meet rigorous criteria for severe weather preparedness and response. These standards include maintaining a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center, having multiple ways to receive and disseminate weather warnings, promoting public readiness through education and training and developing comprehensive emergency plans.

“This recognition reflects the strong collaboration across campus to prioritize the safety of our students, faculty and staff,” said Sam Preston, USI Director of Public Safety. “Being named a StormReady university demonstrates our proactive approach to preparedness and our ability to respond quickly and effectively when severe weather threatens our campus community.”

Through this certification, USI has enhanced its ability to monitor weather conditions, issue timely alerts and coordinate with local emergency management and first responders. These efforts help reduce risk and improve overall safety during tornadoes, thunderstorms, flooding and other hazardous conditions.

Christine Wielgos, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky, noted the importance of the designation. “StormReady communities and organizations are better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of severe weather through advanced planning, education and awareness,” she said. “USI’s commitment to meeting these standards demonstrates its dedication to protecting its campus community.”

The University recognized this achievement during a brief media event on Thursday, April 30.

For more information about USI Public Safety, visit USI.edu/public-safety.