Kevin and I took a couple of hours this afternoon to walk around the campus. We went through almost every building and found things to be dry, safe and secure. We were so pleased to see that everyone is respecting the laboratory and building closure policy. We also spent time with graduate students at RVA and RGA, and everyone was in good spirits. Our staff continues to model the way to roll up your sleeves and do all that needs to be done to keep the campus functioning. Our Engineering Professor Phil Bedient has been an incredible resource for us as we plan for the next phase of this storm.

As we noted in our previous message, Harvey has been downgraded to a tropical storm. It is extremely slow-moving, with the worst of the rain and wind hitting southwest of Houston near Victoria. Nevertheless, we need to remain vigilant: Winds of 20-40 mph are expected over night, and flash flood watches are in effect. In addition, areas of Harris County are currently under a tornado warning.

A few reminders about our current status:

• Rice will remain closed through 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
• A decision about the university's operating status for Monday will be made Sunday morning.
• Brochstein Pavilion will be open Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• All four serveries (North, South, West and Seibel) will be open Sunday for brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for dinner from 5 to 7 p.m.
• On Sunday, additional shuttle service to the grocery store will be available to graduate students at the Rice Village Apartments and Rice Graduate Apartments from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• The Rec Center will be open Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. for Rice students, staff and faculty only. A Rice ID is required for entry.
• Fondren Library will be open Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. for Rice students, staff and faculty only. A Rice ID is required for entry.
• A crew from Facilities Engineering and Planning remains on campus overnight and through tomorrow so any issues can be addressed.
• Because weather can change quickly, we strongly recommend that you remain in your current location and avoid the risk of traveling and getting caught in an unsafe situation.

As we write this, the next bands of rain have started. It’s a good night to stay inside and watch the Owls compete with Stanford for the Sydney Cup in Australia at 9 p.m. on ESPN. Go Owls!

If you have comments or questions, send an email to cmtcomment@rice.edu.

Marie Lynn Miranda
Provost

Kevin Kirby
Vice President for Administration
Chair of the Crisis Management Team