Anastasia Russel, 18, is among the students currently sheltering-in-place at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida as Hurricane Helene approaches. The university's Augustus B. Turnbull Conference Center has been upgraded to withstand extreme conditions, equipped with hurricane shutters, debris curtains on windows, and emergency generators capable of powering essential units.
Russel expressed concerns about the safety of her dormitory during the storm and mentioned her discomfort about sleeping in the conference center. Despite the challenges, she remains hopeful and is making the best of the situation.
Upon arrival at the conference center on Thursday morning, Russel brought a suitcase as instructed by the university. To pass the time, she and other students have engaged in activities such as playing chess, cards, and watching movies like Sharknado. The university has provided sandwiches and juice to the students as they wait for the storm to pass.
While Russel brought snacks to sustain herself, she eagerly anticipates receiving the all-clear from FSU to leave the conference center. The students are prepared to stay until it is deemed safe to return to their dormitories.