Florida A&M University President Larry Robinson declared a state of emergency Friday after a tornado caused damage to the Tallahassee main campus.
“We appreciate all of the prayers and support from the community. Our employees are working strenuously to ensure we can restore normal operations as soon as possible,” Robinson said. “Although there has been substantial damage from the storm, we are thankful that there has been no loss of life or serious injuries reported.”
this is crazy 😭😭 (not my video) pic.twitter.com/HPf43GobOc
— cozartt. (@drewcozartt) May 10, 2024
The storm knocked out electricity, damaged roofs, downed trees and utility lines, blocked roadways, and scattered debris across the campus.
The university has been informed by city utility officials that power outages may persist through the weekend. Kendall Jones, associate vice president Facilities, Planning, Construction, and Safety, said staff has being deploying generators to provide back up electricity.
At least 15 buildings, including the Grand Ballroom, the Banneker Buildings and the old Plant, Operations and Maintenance Building, suffered some form of roof and water damage. The flashing on Lee Hall was also damaged, Jones said.
The university received sheets of tarp from the State Division of Emergency Management to secure roofs until repairs are completed.
As a result of the damage and clean up efforts, the Tallahassee main campus will remain closed for extracurricular activities until further notice. Faculty and non-essential staff are asked to work remotely until instructed to return to the office.
While the cleanup proceeds, the campus remains unsafe, the school said.
