Texas Tech University’s substation experienced an explosion on Wednesday evening, March 12th, causing a power outage on campus. Multiple areas on the campus were affected by the power outage.
According to TechAlert, authorities stated that the explosion occurred inside a manhole in an area on the campus known as “Engineering Key.” There have been no reports of injuries.
The university announced that the spring break, originally scheduled to begin next Monday, would start immediately, urging students to check their emails for more information.
As of Wednesday night, the campus remained without power. Texas Tech University stated that barricades were removed around 11 p.m., allowing students to return and retrieve their belongings. The campus will continue to be closed on Thursday and Friday.
TechAlert reported that due to a gas odor, personnel in the “Engineering Key” area were evacuated. The evacuation was limited to certain areas within the campus.
The Lubbock Fire Rescue (LFR) in the city of Lubbock mentioned that firefighters responded to a potential gas leak incident around 7:00 p.m., where smoke and fire were observed coming from multiple manholes upon their arrival. Officials assured that more information would be provided as it becomes available.
Lubbock Power & Light stated that their staff is collaborating with other agencies to resolve the issue as quickly and safely as possible.
Texas Tech University, a research-based university established in 1923 as Texas Technological College before being renamed in 1969, has a total student population of 35,893, ranking seventh among Texas colleges.
(The information in this article was referenced from a report by “The Hill”.)