Updated as of 7:44 p.m. on Jan. 9 to include comment from Elon University Facilities Management.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Alamance-Burlington area has a severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 3:15 p.m. and a tornado watch in effect until 9 p.m. A flood watch and wind advisory is also in place for the rest of the night.
E-Alerts were issued for the tornado watch around 1:30 p.m., but an incorrect statement was issued about a tornado warning.
Residence life did not respond to immediate requests for comment. Facilities Management Senior Director Raymond Fletcher wrote in an email to Elon News Network that while they will continue to monitor campus this evening as high winds continue, there has not been any damage to campus.
Fletcher wrote the biggest risk to campus is power outages.
“Fortunately, the campus is in good shape after the storms moved through,” Fletcher wrote. “While we did have standing water in the streets at times, the storm drainage system will catch up and carry that water off.”
Vice President for Student Life Jon Dooley sent a message to the Elon community with information on the forecast and suggested preparations for the storm.
“We don’t currently anticipate any disruption or changes to Elon University operations,” Dooley wrote. “But since one hazard associated with this storm is the possibility of a few tornadoes, this is a good time to prepare for that possibility.”
Freshman Gabby Miller said that she forgot her umbrella in her car and spent the day soaking wet.
“This kind of heavy rain is not normal,” Miller said.
To be prepared for the severe weather, Elon recommended monitoring weather forecasts, ensuring students’ current cell phone numbers are in OnTrack to receive E-Alert notifications and review emergency shelter locations.
Contact Campus Safety and Police at 336-278-5555 for any assistance or 911 for immediate medical emergencies.
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Avery Sloan contributed to the reporting of this story