Tornado in North Carolina Causes Severe Damage to Pfizer Plant and Injures Dozens
A powerful tornado tore through Nash County, North Carolina on Wednesday afternoon, causing extensive damage to a Pfizer plant and injuring more than a dozen people. The National Weather Service reported that the tornado left EF-3 damage in its wake, with winds reaching an estimated 150 mph.
The tornado initially touched down west of Dortches before crossing Interstate 95 and heading towards an area north of Rocky Mount. As it moved through Nash County, several structures were flattened, including the Pfizer plant. Video footage from helicopters showed the plant’s roof crumpled like paper and debris scattered across the surrounding parking lot. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries at the facility.
At least 13 people in Nash County were treated for minor injuries caused by the storm, while three individuals in neighboring Edgecombe County were injured, two of them with life-threatening injuries, according to the county sheriff’s office.
One couple in Nash County experienced a harrowing ordeal when their home was ripped from its foundation and thrown across the yard with them inside. Their appliances, furniture, and belongings were scattered across the property. The homeowner, Mike Poythress, managed to put his significant other, Deborah Moore, in the bathtub before the home went flying. They were both tossed during the incident, with the bathtub landing nearly 30 yards away. Moore sustained injuries but is expected to recover.
Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone urged people to stay off the roads due to downed power lines, a gas leak, and other severe damage in the area. He emphasized that the situation was still dangerous and efforts were underway to clean up the debris before nightfall.
The tornado also toppled trees onto Interstate 95, leading to the closure of the major highway in both directions for at least an hour. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper acknowledged the damage on Twitter and assured the public that first responders were on the scene to clear roads and provide assistance.
An initial survey by the National Weather Service revealed EF-2 damage in Dortches, but further assessment indicated EF-3 damage north of Rocky Mount, with winds estimated at 150 mph. Survey teams are continuing to assess the area.
Pfizer released a statement expressing their concern for their colleagues, patients, and the community affected by the tornado. They are currently assessing the impact on production and are committed to rebuilding from this weather incident.
As the cleanup and recovery efforts continue, the community is coming together to support those affected by the tornado.
How is Pfizer planning to restore operations at their damaged plant and minimize the impact on the production and distribution of their pharmaceutical products
As well. The injured individuals were taken to local hospitals for treatment and are expected to make a full recovery.
Emergency crews and responders quickly arrived at the scene to assess and assist with the aftermath of the tornado. Local authorities worked to ensure the safety of the affected areas and to provide any necessary support to residents and businesses.
The Pfizer plant, which produces pharmaceutical products, suffered significant damage from the tornado. The company is currently assessing the extent of the destruction and making plans for repairs. It is unclear at this time how long the plant will be out of operation and how it may impact the production and distribution of Pfizer’s products.
Pfizer released a statement expressing their concern for the well-being of their employees and the community. The company assured that they are working diligently to support their employees and to restore operations as quickly as possible.
The National Weather Service will conduct further investigations to determine the exact path and strength of the tornado. These findings will assist in providing a better understanding of the event and help communities better prepare for future severe weather occurrences.
Tornadoes are not uncommon in this part of North Carolina, but the strength and severity of this particular tornado have caused significant damage and injuries. Local authorities are urging residents to stay alert and be prepared for any future weather emergencies.
As the affected communities come together to recover and rebuild, support from neighboring areas and organizations will be vital. Local authorities, emergency services, and community members have already shown resilience and determination in the face of this disaster.
