CATHER-POUND DEMOLITION/WHAT TO EXPECT: Kicking up some dust

The demolition of the Cather and Pound residence halls is expected to create a large cloud of dust immediately following the implosion, but that dust cloud should not pose a health concern to those who are outside the exclusion and evacuation zones.

Ashraf Aly Hassan, research assistant professor of civil engineering, said the weather on Friday morning – forecast to include temperatures in the low-to-mid 20s with a north/northwest wind at 5 to 10 mph – could have a small effect on the movement of the dust cloud.

“The dust’s movement is dependent on the wind that day,” said Aly Hassan. “All of the dust will settle within an hour after the implosion.”

Shipping containers have been set up around the implosion site to help limit the spread of the dust. Nearby buildings will be outfitted with cloth barriers to protect from dust and debris. For many safety reasons, people should avoid entering the exclusion and evacuation zones until the all-clear signal is broadcast.