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Phone and Internet service on campus was interrupted at about 2 p.m. today by an off-campus lightning strike affecting the campus’ main switch for phone service and backup phone line.
Plant Operations has determined that lightning hitting an off-campus telephone line has resulted in damage to components associated with the main campus switch, located in Markle Hall, although the switch itself is lightning-protected, says George Xiques, assistant director of engineering and planning. Lucent Technologies is making emergency repairs. However, phone service is not likely to be restored for the rest of the working day.
Local radio station WAEB (790 AM) reports a thunderstorm warning is in effect for the area until 8 p.m. Conditions may include hail and winds gusting up to 55 miles per hour, as well as continued rain and lightning.