A midmorning thunderstorm blew through the area on Wednesday, March 5, knocking out power to most of the University of Lynchburg campus. Classes were canceled for the rest of the day and non-essential staff were told to work from home.

According to Logan Gower, capital projects manager at Lynchburg, a tree located at corner of Vernon and College streets fell, striking a powerline and disrupting power at 10:13 a.m. Power at the University’s Graduate Health Sciences building was not impacted.

Shortly thereafter, a smoke smell was detected in both Dillard Fine Arts Center and Hall Campus Center and both buildings were evacuated. This prompted a vigorous response from the Lynchburg Fire Department, which dispatched several emergency vehicles to campus.

The source of the smoke smell was investigated by LFD, and no fire or danger of fire was found. While University Facilities personnel are still looking into the matter, it is believed that the smoke smell resulted from mechanical issues related to the power outage. The University is currently working with AEP to restore power to campus.

“We are extremely grateful to Lynchburg’s emergency services for their rapid and effective response,” said University President Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar. “Their prompt action ensured the continued safety of our students, faculty, staff, and guests, and we are deeply appreciative of their dedication and service to our community.”

Update 5 p.m., March 5: Power has been restored to campus. Classes and work schedules will resume as normal tomorrow, March 6.