Parts of the roof of the science building at Hannibal-LaGrange University in Hannibal, Mo., are scattered among downed trees on campus. Several HLGU buildings suffered damage during a storm on May 20. (HLGU photo)
|
HANNIBAL, Mo. — Several buildings on the Hannibal-LaGrange University campus in Hannibal suffered wind and water damage from a severe storm May 20.
Initial reports indicate a portion of the roof was blown off the science building. In addition, the Roland Fine Arts Center, Prince House, Carroll Missions Center and a couple of dorms sustained some damage.
Several trees that line the main entrance were damaged or uprooted.
Most students had already left campus for summer break and mission trips.
“We are grateful that there was no loss of life,” HLGU President Anthony Allen said in a press release. “There has been an outpouring of support. I know God will use this event to help us share the love of Christ and extend a helping hand to our community.”
Missouri Baptist Disaster Relief has sent chain saw teams to the area, and is using the campus as its command central and staging area. Bethel Baptist Association also is helping with recovery efforts. Bleigh Construction is assisting with campus cleanup.
Allen added that the school’s iconic arch and trinity tree suffered no major damage. According to media reports, the storm knocked out power and damaged buildings across Hannibal. Power was still out for about half the city on Tuesday morning (May 21).
A team from the National Weather Service was expected on May 21 to determine whether the damage was caused by a tornado or straight-line winds. (May 21, 2013)