Natural Gas Pipe Break At Hofstra University, Causing Evacuations, Officials Say

HEMPSTEAD, NY — A natural gas pipe ruptured, leaking at Hofstra University on Thursday afternoon, fire marshals said. Three classroom buildings were evacuated, school officials said.

A private contractor struck an underground natural gas pipe in Hofstra Weed Hall while excavating an area at the north end of the parking lot at approximately 1:15 p.m., Nassau County Fire Marshal's Office said.

Hofstra University Public Safety officers reported the incident to 911, Nassau County police confirmed.

No evacuations were needed, and no buildings were directly affected, fire marshals said.

According to fire marshals, the Hempstead Fire Department responded and requested the NCFM HazMat team to respond as well.

The National Grid Emergency Crew clamped the damaged pipe, stopping the leak, fire marshals said. The classrooms and offices have since been deemed safe for students and staff to return to, school officials said.