Dwight Hall's copper beech tree took "severe damage" after last night’s storms, according to an email sent by Mount Holyoke College at 12:32 p.m. today. The trunk had split down the side, creating multiple stress fractures at the tree's base. The College's arborists and tree consultants began trimming the beech this morning. However, according to Grounds Supervisor Dave Barthelette, by 12:59 p.m. they determined it too “unstable” to safely remain upright. 

"It has to be taken down," Barthelette said. "It's devastating."