University of Idaho classes have been cancelled for the remainder of the week due to a damaged regional natural gas pipeline, according to an email from President Scott Green.
Students received a Vandal Alert earlier this evening notifying them of the damaged pipeline. Students were to expect temperatures to drop in all university buildings. Avista, an energy company, notified the university of the damaged pipeline that would have a large impact on the Inland Northwest, the email said.
Because of this, all university buildings will have no heat and no hot water. The repair is expected to take multiple days. Green notified students, staff and faculty that classes were cancelled for the rest of the week. Essential staff, however, are to communicate with employers to see if they are required to work.
The Eatery will remain open and will offer a discounted price to anyone on campus, the email said. The Market in the Living Learning Communities will also remain open.
Students, faculty and staff will be given an update on university operations over the weekend.
“We appreciate your understanding of these circumstances that are beyond our control. Take care of yourself, your families and each other,” Green said in the email.
The major pipeline breached north of Pullman, according to a Vandal Alert. This breach will affect Pullman, Moscow and the Lewis Clark Valley. Many businesses and restaurants will also be impacted.
Joanna Hayes can be reached at [email protected]