Emergency Situation at Texas Tech University
An underground fire and explosion at a power substation caused multiple power outages and evacuations on the Texas Tech University campus in Lubbock, Texas. The incident occurred on Wednesday night, prompting a swift response from emergency officials.
Initial Response
Police, firefighters, and state troopers responded to reports of gas leaks, smoke, and flames on campus. Lubbock Fire Rescue units arrived at the scene after 7 p.m. to investigate a reported gas leak at the 900 block of Boston Avenue. Around 30 minutes later, the Engineering Key was evacuated due to a "gas odor."
Widespread Power Outages
Students on campus reported seeing large plumes of smoke and green flames from manholes near the Engineering Key. Lubbock Fire Rescue confirmed that "active fire and smoke" was seen issuing from multiple manholes on campus. The power outages were widespread, affecting the university and the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
Campus Closure and Evacuations
The TTUHSC campus asked students and staff to vacate its Lubbock campus at 8:35 p.m. The Texas Tech library announced at 9:15 p.m. that it was closed "due to the ongoing situation." Texas Tech announced that the campus will be closed on Thursday, March 13, and Friday, March 14, and spring break will begin "immediately" as the power on campus will be shut down to begin repairs.
Safety Precautions
Students, faculty, and staff have been advised to work remotely, and students in campus residence halls were encouraged to stay in place until Thursday morning. Students in need of assistance or alternate accommodations have been provided contact with university staff. In a statement, university President Lawrence Schovanec said campus infrastructure is being "thoroughly investigated" as power is brought back online.
Updates and Available Services
While the power outages impacted the broadcast signal for KTTZ PBS TV channels and NPR at 89.1FM, digital stream signals are still available at radio.kttz.org and PBS/NPR streaming platforms. As of Thursday morning at 7 a.m., KTTZ 89.1 FM is back on air, and digital stream signals are currently unavailable.
Conclusion
The situation at Texas Tech University is being closely monitored, and officials are working to restore power and ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff. The university’s decision to close the campus and begin spring break early is a precautionary measure to allow for repairs and investigations to take place. Students and the public are advised to avoid the campus until further notice.
