Explosion at Texas Tech Substation Spurs Immediate Campus Closure

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - An explosion occurred on Wednesday night at a substation located on Texas Tech University’s campus, but thankfully, Lubbock Fire Rescue reports that there have been no injuries. The area remains under control as responders manage the incident.

Following the explosion, Texas Tech has communicated that students can return to their residence halls but are advised to avoid the Engineering Key area. Campus employees should refrain from coming back to gather belongings at this time for safety reasons.

Due to the incident, Texas Tech has expedited the beginning of Spring Break, announcing the university will be closed on Thursday and Friday.

TechAlert! Texas Tech University will be closed on Thursday, March 13, and Friday, March 14. Spring Break for students, originally scheduled to start Monday, will begin immediately. Check email for more information.

— Texas Tech University (@TexasTech) March 13, 2025

As of 10:30 p.m., not all dorms have been evacuated. For safety reasons regarding night travel, Texas Tech police are advising students to wait until morning to leave campus for Spring Break.

Earlier, around 7 p.m., reports of a gas leak in the Engineering Key were received by the Lubbock Fire Rescue. Upon arrival, crews discovered smoke and fire emanating from several manholes.

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation.

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