Understanding Campus Weather Alerts at A&M-Commerce

The article highlights the importance of distinguishing between lightning and tornado alarms on the A&M-Commerce campus for safety purposes. Andrew Resk, the Emergency Management Program Manager, explains that the lightning alarm sounds like an air horn, while the tornado alarm is a siren.
Lightning Alert:

• Recently upgraded to the Perry Weather system.
• Activates with a 15-second air horn when lightning is detected within 10 miles.
• An "all clear" signal consists of three short air horn blasts.
• Intended for on-campus areas but may be heard off-campus.
• Automatically activated by sensors.
• When heard, individuals should go indoors until the all-clear sounds.
  Tornado Alert:
• A three-minute siren with no all-clear signal.
• Alerts for tornado sightings or favorable conditions.
• Audible to those outdoors on-campus and within Commerce city limits.
• Manually activated by police dispatchers.
• Monthly tests occur on the first Wednesday at noon.
• Individuals should seek shelter immediately upon hearing it.
  Additionally, the Lion Safe app provides safety alerts and access to campus safety resources, encouraging students, faculty, and staff to download it for real-time updates on severe weather.