Due to the severe weather forecast, all Coastal Carolina University evening classes and events after 4 p.m. today, Wednesday, April 5, are canceled. All administrative offices closed at 4 p.m. Essential employees will be contacted by their supervisors for further instruction.

Kimbel Library, Hicks Dining Hall, the UP Café, Hackler Grill, the P.O.D. Market at Tradition Hall and Student Health Services will operate as regularly scheduled. The HTC Center will remain open until 9 p.m. Student Union activities are canceled, and student groups will not meet. (The Student Union P.O.D. and CINO Grille are closed.)

University officials will make a decision about campus operations for Thursday, April 6, at 5:30 a.m. tomorrow.

Coastal Carolina University Emergency Management is closely monitoring the weather forecast. The National Weather Services has issued a Tornado Watch for our area until 8 p.m. tonight. There is a possibility for severe thunderstorms, strong wind gusts, hail and isolated tornadoes. Episodes of severe weather are expected throughout the night, so please maintain a heightened level of awareness. The first round of severe weather is possible this afternoon into early evening. Another round of severe weather could impact our area overnight into Thursday morning. Stay informed. Monitor the local media for weather information and updates.

CCU students, faculty and staff should be aware of these conditions and be cautious and alert to potential hazards. Now is the time to review emergency preparedness procedures. You can find helpful severe thunderstorm preparedness information here and tornado emergency procedures here.

A WATCH means that the risk of hazardous weather has increased significantly, so BE PREPARED.

A WARNING means that hazardous weather is occurring or is imminent, so TAKE ACTION.

In the event that a Tornado Warning is issued for our area, CCU's outdoor mass notification system will be activated, and a message will be broadcast through the large speakers on the main campus advising the campus community to seek shelter immediately. Everyone should seek shelter in a sturdy building in an interior room on the lowest floor. A CCU Alert will also be sent. Please make sure your CCU Alert account is updated to receive texts. Update your CCU Alert account using this link.