A list of FAQ's and additional resources to aid and assist students in returning home to Augusta University after the devastation of Hurricane Helene.
Is my on-campus housing still available after the hurricane?
Yes, your on-campus housing is available and has been inspected for safety. When moving in, please use the Room Condition Report to check for any damages. These reports can be found at the front desk of Oak Hall, Elm Hall, and the University Village Clubhouse. For Beacon Station residents, submit a work order directly to Beacon Station.
Are there any changes to housing policies or procedures due to the hurricane?
No, there will be no changes to Housing and Residence Life policies. Please review the Guide to Residential Life as a refresher for your return.
Will I need to complete any forms or paperwork to return to my residence halls?
Yes, you will need to complete a brief check-in form to confirm your return. This form will be available at your residence hall front desk or the University Village Clubhouse.
Are there any safety protocols that I should consider when returning to campus?
Yes, when returning to your living space, please check for any visible damage and report it immediately through a work order, as well as note it on your Room Condition Report. Additionally, exercise caution when consuming food due to the extended power outage.
What should I do if my belongings were damaged during the hurricane?
If your belongings were damaged, please refer to your renter’s insurance policy to see what coverage you have. Contact your insurance provider for assistance with claims.
How can I report any damage I see in my residence hall?
If you notice any damage, please complete the Room Condition Report available at your residence hall front desk or the University Village Clubhouse. You will also need to submit a work order to ensure prompt attention to the issue.
What steps is the university taking to restore utilities and services on campus?
Power and water in all residence halls have been restored. The university is actively working to prepare the residence halls for reopening.
I left food in my room, is the food safe to eat?
Our residential facilities were without power from three to six days. As the USDA notes in Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency, your refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours during a power outage. Therefore, this prolonged outage resulted in spoiled food and unsanitary conditions that could pose health risks to you. To ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, a team of campus volunteers removed spoiled and rotten food from the refrigerators.
How will the university ensure safety and security in the dorms after the hurricane?
The university has conducted thorough safety inspections and will continue to have staffed front desk at Oak and Elm Hall, and additional AUPD presence at Beacon Station and University Village.
When will I be able to pick up mail and packages in my residence hall?
Mail and package services are expected to resume shortly. You will be notified when you can begin picking up your items from your residence hall.
What if I have health concerns or specific needs due to the hurricane?
If you have any health concerns or specific needs, please reach out to Student Health Services or the AU Cares website.
Are there any events planned to help students reconnect after the hurricane?
Yes, the university may host events and activities to facilitate reconnection among students. Keep an eye on your university email and social media for updates on programming.
Will there be any resources available for students affected by the hurricane?
Yes, students needing assistance to restock their refrigerators can request items via this form. We'll do our best to accommodate your requests based on available donations! Also, please visit the AU Cares website.
Will dining services be available when I return?
Yes, dining services will be operational, though some locations may have limited hours or menu options initially.
On Sunday, brunch will be at the Atrium 11 am – 1 pm and dinner from 4 to 8.
Shuttle will depart from University Village at 11 and 12 for brunch and 4, 5, 6, 7 for dinner
Please check the dining services website for the latest updates.
Can I still access campus facilities like the gym and library?
Most campus facilities, including the gym and library, are expected to be accessible, but some may have adjusted hours. Please check the university website for current availability.
How will I be notified of future emergencies or alerts on campus?
The university will notify you of emergencies through multiple channels, including email, text alerts, and social media. Ensure you are signed up for these notifications to stay informed.
How can I stay updated on campus safety and recovery efforts?
Stay connected through official university communication channels, including emails, the university website, and social media. Regular updates will be provided regarding safety protocols and recovery efforts.
Direct contacts to our Campus Assessment Response and Evaluation Team, including our Incident Reporting Form
If you are experiencing needs as a result of Hurricane Helene, we want to help you find the resources you need and, in some instances, may be able to connect you with others in our AU community who can provide assistance.
