On the Texas Tech University campus in Lubbock, an explosion led to fires and power outages Wednesday, prompting officials to order evacuations and cancel classes for the remainder of the week.
Initially identified as occurring at a substation, a later update clarified that the explosion took place at a manhole. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, according to Lubbock Fire Rescue Capt. Jon Tunnell.
Social media and local television footage showcased a substantial emergency presence, with firefighters on-site and visuals of fire and smoke emanating from a manhole cover.
The cause of the explosion is still undetermined.
Caitlynn Jeffries, a spokesperson for the university’s police department, announced that the campus-wide power outage is necessary while repairs are conducted.
“Students can begin their Spring break early since classes are suspended for the next couple of days,” Jeffries mentioned.
Faculty and staff were also advised to work remotely where feasible until further notice.
Lubbock Fire Rescue responded to the scene due to reports of a possible gas leak at around 7 p.m., finding that “multiple manhole covers had smoke and fire coming from them,” explained Tunnell.
“This is still an active situation as crews strive to control this emergency alongside Texas Tech University,” he added.
The university, home to over 40,000 students, is situated on 1,800 acres in West Texas.
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