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Emergency Preparedness

Hurricane Frequently Asked Questions

When does the University begin monitoring for potential Hurricanes that may threaten the campus?

Loyola University’s Emergency Management team begins monitoring all tropical activity long before it develops into a tropical storm or a Hurricane that threatens the Mid-Atlantic region. We monitor tropical activity throughout hurricane season and coordinate with state and local emergency management offices, the National Weather Service, and Loyola’s weather team for the most up-to-date forecast information. The Weather team provides a hurricane season forecast outlook to the Emergency Management Team which is updated periodically throughout the year.

What are the main hazards associated with a Hurricane that would impact the campus?

High winds and gusts, heavy rainfall and inland flooding, and tornadoes are hazards that have the ability to accompany a Hurricane and could impact the campus. However, every hurricane is unique in the hazards it brings.

Is the campus susceptible to flooding?

The flooding caused by storm surge does not affect the campus. Rather, it is localized flooding in the low-lying areas on campus that flood during heavy rains. University staff are aware of these areas and have procedures in place to mitigate the issue. However, there are some areas staff will cordon off and allow the water to go down gradually. Always avoid swimming and driving in or through flood waters.

Is Loyola University Maryland located within a hurricane evacuation zone?

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, FEMA and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, Loyola is not located in a hurricane evacuation zone.

Would Loyola University Maryland close campus if a Hurricane is forecast for our area?

In an effort to safeguard the University community and allow for safe clean-up, Loyola will close the campus when necessary for a Hurricane or tropical storm event. 
This decision will be made as quickly and as far in advance as possible. In most cases announcements will be made before 6 a.m. day-of (early closings are announced immediately when a decision is made during the day). However, forecasts are often uncertain and change unexpectedly, which could cause announcements to be made later or earlier than expected. Regardless of time of day, please monitor all of the communications channels listed below when inclement weather is in the forecast.

Announcements will be made through PM_Evergreen email to all members of the campus community, Greyhound Alert text message, Inside Loyola, loyola.edu homepage, the Emergency Information page, weather line (410-617-2223), Facebook, and Twitter.

Radio:

  • WBAL (1090 AM)
  • WIYY (98 Rock) 
  • WTOP (820 AM and 103.5 FM)
  • WWMX-FM (mix 106.5)
  • WLIF-FM (101.9 Lite FM)

Television: 

  • WMAR - TV (2)
  • WBAL - TV (11)
  • WJZ - TV (13)
  • WBFF Fox (45)
  • WRC-TV (4)

Would Loyola University Maryland evacuate residence halls for a hurricane?

In the unlikely event that we would need to evacuate the campus for a Hurricane, the University will advise residential students to go home or go home with a friend.  Residential students who have absolutely no way of evacuating will be provided shelter by the University at a designated location.  Students requiring shelter should be prepared to be in the shelter area for at least 72 hours. Students are allowed one carry-on size, soft-side bag for essentials such as toiletries, clothing, comfort items and other personal items.

Why is the University taking action when the hurricane is still days from landfall?

Loyola begins taking proactive measures as soon as the storm threat to our campus is determined.  This allows us to stage personnel and materials to manage the effects of the storm. These measures also allow us to resume our normal activities sooner and with minimal disruption.

How will I know when I can come back to campus?

Following a hurricane, the University will initiate the recovery process by assessing the campus for damage and hazardous areas. All emergency repairs and debris management activities will take place before the campus is reopened to ensure the safety of the University community. The duration of the recovery phase will depend on the severity of the damages and debris. As the University works through recovery, the Emergency Management Team will evaluate and communicate the planned return to campus. Once the campus is deemed safe the University will allow all students and employees to return to campus. The University will not hold classes without giving ample time for students to return. The University will post regular updates on our Emergency Information page throughout the recovery process.

What should I do if there is a hurricane forecast for the area?

All students encouraged to follow evacuation instructions.  Students who are unable to evacuate should be able to be self-supportive for at least 72 hours. If you live off-campus and are sheltering-in-place have enough supplies on-hand to be on your own, possibly without power, for at least 72 hours. Below are general guidelines to help you prepare for a hurricane. Specific instructions will be released by the University as the storm approaches.

  • Stay tuned to local media for the weather forecast and monitor the University website for updates. If you haven’t already done so, sign up to receive Greyhound Alerts. 
  • Have an out-of-state point of contact and inform family of the situation.
  • Ensure that your emergency supply kit is stocked. Visit our Personal Emergency Kit page for more information.
  • Have cash on hand in case the power goes out and ATM/credit cards cannot be accepted.
  • Put all important documents in a protected area.
  • Fill your prescriptions.
  • Charge your electronics.
  • Fill up your vehicle with fuel.