As Hurricane Francine swept through the Thibodaux campus of Nicholls State University on September 12, 2024, approximately 400 students are currently facing power outages. The storm brought heavy rainfall and strong winds, which hindered many students from evacuating before it struck. According to Jerad David, the university’s spokesperson, the institution is taking steps to assist those affected by establishing several buildings on campus as generator-powered cooling stations.
While the campus did experience some damage, the extent was reportedly less severe than initially anticipated. However, several buildings, including the main science building, did suffer roof damage. To support students who stayed on campus during the storm, meals were provided for two days. Now, efforts are focused on restoring dining services by bringing food vendors back to campus, utilizing generator power to facilitate this process.
The university’s plans for reopening depend on the restoration of power, which Entergy has not yet provided an estimated timeline for. The situation remains dynamic as the campus community collaborates to navigate the aftermath of the storm.