A crew from Coastal Tree Service works to remove a downed tree that fell on the HSU Campus Apartments early Monday, Feb. 9.

UPDATE, 3:23 p.m.: Humboldt State University press release: 

Humboldt State University and contractors began work early this afternoon to remove a large section of a redwood tree that fell on the roof of Campus Apartments just before 1 a.m. 

The smaller branches will be removed first. Then, after a large crane is set up, crews will be able to lift the tree off the building and start removing larger sections. The work is expected to continue into the evening.

The damage to the building forced 202 residents to temporarily relocate to the Great Hall. Those students who are not staying with friends have now been moved to the West Gym, and are being provided cots and access to showers. Residents are also being provided with free meals at two campus eateries. Professors are working with the displaced students so that they do not get behind on their coursework.

After the tree is removed, facilities staff will have better access to the building to inspect the damage and assess its safety. An initial inspection this morning revealed no major structural damage.

Most residents are expected to be able to return to their rooms sometime tomorrow. However, as many as three rooms may need extensive repairs, in which case those residents would need to be relocated to other campus housing.

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ORIGINAL POST:

Photos in this post courtesy local ace photographer LoCO contributor James Adam Taylor

Humboldt State University press release:

The Campus Apartments at Humboldt State University remain closed after the facility was hit by a large section of a redwood tree early this morning.

There were no injuries. Students living in the apartments have been relocated to the Great Hall in the College Creek Apartments on campus.

The incident occurred just before 1 a.m., and was brought about by extremely high winds. A redwood tree very close to the building split, with one section hitting the roof and the third story. Damage, while significant, does not appear to have affected the structural integrity of the building.

University Police and Arcata Fire Department responded quickly, as did staff from Residence Life and a number of other campus departments. The building was evacuated, and it was determined that further safety checks would be needed in the morning. Students living there were allowed to make short, escorted trips in to their rooms to get small personal items and class materials, and then were relocated to the Great Hall.

University staff have been at the scene all morning, and have determined that a crane will be needed to remove a portion of the tree that is still on the roof. That is expected to be done today or tomorrow. At that point, facilities staff and contractors will be able to better assess the damage and estimate repair time.

Staff are also assessing the structural integrity of a number of other trees near Campus Apartments.

The Campus Apartments remain closed and the University is asking individuals to stay away from the area.