Tornado Watch = Conditions are right for a tornado; be alert to weather conditions.

Tornado Warning = One or more tornadoes have been sighted in the area or are on radar; protective measures are required.

Note: Since it is difficult to hear the tornado siren from inside the Hardin Library, it is important that the weather is monitored from the National Weather Service website at www.noaa.gov. Johnson County will sound the siren for winds over 70 mph and golf-ball sized hail.

In the event of a tornado watch or severe thunderstorm:

• In the event of a severe thunderstorm warning with winds over 70 mph and golf-ball sized hail, Johnson County will initiate a siren, or steady tone, for a period of 3 to 5 minutes.
• The staff member who first becomes aware of the siren should make a PA announcement stating that there is a weather condition, but it is not a tornado warning. This can be done from one of the phones at the circulation desk. Dial 5-8254, dial 0 for all floors, wait for a tone, and make the announcement.

In the event of a tornado warning:

• Johnson County will initiate a siren, or steady tone, for a period of 3 to 5 minutes.
• We may also receive a call from the Building Supervisor at the Main Library that a warning is in effect.
• The staff member who first becomes aware of the warning should make a PA announcement stating that there is a tornado warning in effect. This can be done from one of the phones at the circulation desk. Dial 5-8254, dial 0 for all floors, wait for a tone, and make the announcement. In the announcement, recommend that patrons move to the 1st floor area.
• At the time of the warning, one staff member should check each floor for patrons who may not have heard the warning or to assist users who need help using the stairs. Ensure that student employees have vacated the East Commons and locked the door.
• All staff and student employees should relocate to the 1st floor. The 3rd floor desk will remain unattended during this time. Library doors do not lock during warnings. * Monitor weather conditions from the 1st floor desk at www.noaa.gov.
• If the time estimate for the warning has elapsed or the warning is no longer in effect, make an announcement that the warning has expired.
• If people are injured, call 911. If materials or the library collections are damaged, call staff in the Preservation Department (5-5897). On weekends or evening, contact the library director.