The Storm Lake Police Department and Storm Lake Fire Department are on scene at Buena Vista University this afternoon. According to BVU President Brian Lenzmeier, a gas line was struck near West Fourth Street and Grand Avenue, prompting an immediate evacuation.
At 12:14 p.m., BVU’s alert system directed students, faculty, and staff north of Fourth Street to leave buildings on foot and avoid starting vehicles. Evacuees were directed to shelter at Pierce and White residence halls, Estelle Siebens Science Center, and Siebens Fieldhouse. A follow-up alert at 12:36 p.m. confirmed classes were canceled for the remainder of the day.
Storm Lake police, firefighters, and Alliant Energy crews remain on scene investigating and assisting with repairs, which BVU officials said would take several hours.
