Severe Storm Uproots Historic Tree in the Grove
A Weather-inflicted Tragedy Strikes the Heart of Ole Miss
Oxford, Mississippi– A severe storm that swept through Oxford overnight and into the morning hours of April 10, 2024, culminated in a massive tree in the iconic Grove collapsing. The majestic tree, a long-standing symbol of the University of Mississippi’s history and beauty, was uprooted by the brutal winds.
Cleanup Operations in Progress
The University of Mississippi Landscape Services have been tirelessly working to address the aftermath. They began operations around 6:30 a.m., according to Matt Foley, the landscape supervisor. Foley anticipates the cleanup will be finished around 1:30 p.m.
Highlighting the danger, Foley stressed the need for caution amongst the student community. The affected area of the Grove, located across from the Thad Cochran Research Center, has been marked off with yellow caution tape. “When it’s wet like this, do not walk under the trees. The ground is very saturated,” Foley warned.
Despite the tape and warnings, several students were seen lifting the tape and walking along the closed-off paths. The disregard for safety measures potentially exposes them to immense risks, especially during such weather conditions.
An All-too-familiar Undertaking
This is not the first time that Landscape Services have had the task of removing fallen trees on campus. Foley mentioned that last year two pines were toppled over. However, the loss of the iconic tree in the Grove struck a particularly somber note.
“I think it’s very sad because the Grove is so beautiful,” said Anna Richie, an allied health studies major. The Grove is an integral part of Ole Miss, and the fallen tree was one of its most distinct features. Its loss is deeply felt by the university community.
Weather Outlook—Continued Rainfall on the Horizon
Mississippi, and much of the Mid-South, has been receiving incessant rainfall over the last few days. Though crucial in maintaining the regional ecological balance, the relentless rain has negatively impacted the daily routines of the locals.
The heavy rainfall is expected to continue into the early hours of Thursday, April 10. Regarding the ongoing weather conditions, Anna Richie revealed mixed feelings. “I think the rain is important, but it definitely does put a damper on my mood when it’s the entire week,” she said.
Duty Calls
Despite the unfortunate circumstances, the University of Mississippi Landscape Services remains committed to ensuring the safety of the campus. Their determined efforts to clean up after the storm exemplify their dedication to preserving the beauty and security of Ole Miss.
