Severe Weather Policy Reminder as Tornado Season Approaches

As the weather warms up over the spring and summer, Arkansas sees an increased chance for severe weather, especially tornadoes. This is a good time for a refresher on CHI St. Vincent’s tornado plan so that you’re ready in the event of severe weather.

Whenever a tornado warning is issued for Pulaski, Garland or Conway counties, the administrator on call (AOC) or the nursing supervisor (during night shift) is notified. Once the warning is confirmed, an announcement goes out to all staff via xMatters text/email alert and via the PBX intercom indicating whether the severe weather is a Level I, II or III alert.

  • Level I – A tornado warning is issued for the county the hospital is in. Staff are instructed to close drapes and blinds to protect against the possibility of shattering glass.
  • Level II – A tornado is spotted on the ground in a 35-mile radius of the hospital. In addition to closing drapes and blinds, the following actions may be taken:
    • Nursing units prepare to receive additional patients based on severe weather conditions
    • Patients are moved as far as possible from windows
    • Ambulatory patients are moved to the hallways, with patient rooms doors closed behind them
    • All personnel in areas near windows are moved to a central hallway without windows
    • Nonessential traffic, procedures, tests, etc. may be postponed as determined by the AOC
    • Staff may be required to remain in the facility or designated area until released by the AOC
    • In-house staff may be shifted from regular duties to respond to any issues created by the severe weather
    • Staff moves will be announced by the operator over the PBX
  • Level III – Weather reports indicate that the hospital is in the path of a tornado on the ground.
    • Follow all Level II procedures listed above
    • Depending on conditions, the AOC may choose to escalate to the Internal Disaster policy and initiate appropriate procedures

In the event a tornado does strike one of our campuses, CHI St. Vincent will activate its External Disaster policy. If you have any questions about our Severe Weather policy, please ask your supervisor.