A tornado in North Carolina severely damaged a Pfizer plant, damaged several other structures, shut down a major interstate and injured more than a dozen people Wednesday afternoon.
The tornado left EF- 3 damage in places, with winds estimated at 150 mph, the National Weather Service said, as it tore through Nash County, around 45 miles northeast of Raleigh. It initially touched down west of Dortches me before crossing Interstate 95 into an area north of Rocky Mount.
At least 13 people were treated for minor injuries in Nash County as a result of the storm, a county spokesperson said.
Three people were injured in neighboring Edgecombe County – two with life-threatening injuries – when the storm passed through, the county sheriff’s office said.
Some structures in the tornado’s path were flattened. Pfizer’s Rocky Mount facility suffered severe damage – video from helicopters showed the roof crumpled like paper and building debris scattered into the surrounding parking lot. There were no reports of injuries at the plant, according to a statement from the company.
“We are assessing the situation to determine the impact on production. Our thoughts are with our colleagues, our patients, and the community as we rebuild from this weather incident,” the statement said.
couple in Nash County survived a harrowing disaster when their home was ripped from its foundation and flung across the yard with them inside, scattering their appliances, furniture and other belongings over the property,
Homeowner Mike Poythress, who just purchased the home last year, told the station he put his significant other, Deborah Moore, in the bathtub and grabbed his dog. They were tossed when the home went flying, the bathtub landing nearly 30 yards away. Moore was “pretty banged up” and remains at a hospital, where she is expected to recover, he said.
“I was holding on to her nightgown, and my dog, and this is the results. We came out of it, but nothing we owned did,”
“I don’t have anything to rebuild with,” he said. “This is it. Everything I had was put into this home – the furnishings, the appliances, the house itself.”
Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone urged people to stay off roads because of downed power lines, a gas leak and other severe damage across the area.
“It’s still a dangerous situation. We’re trying to get as much of this cleaned up before nightfall,”
The tornado toppled trees onto Interstate 95, the North Carolina Department of Transportation said, shutting the highway down in both directions for at least an hour before reopening.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper acknowledged the damage on Twitter and said that first responders were on scene helping clear roads and provide other aid.
An initial survey by the National Weather Service found EF- 2 damage in Dortches late Wednesday afternoon, but the storm damage survey later revealed EF-3 damage north of Rocky Mount with winds estimated at 150 mph, according to the weather service. Teams still were surveying the area.
Tornado Safety Tips.
Tornado
A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that is in contact with both the surface of the Earth and a cumulonimbus cloud (thunderstorm cloud) or, in rare cases, the base of a cumulus cloud. It is one of the most violent and destructive weather phenomena on Earth. Tornadoes can vary in size, shape, and intensity, ranging from weak and short-lived to extremely powerful and long-lasting.
Here are some key features and characteristics of tornadoes:
Formation: Tornadoes typically form from powerful thunderstorms when certain atmospheric conditions are present. The most common type of tornado, known as a supercell tornado, develops within a rotating thunderstorm called a supercell.
Wind Speeds: Tornado wind speeds can vary significantly, but the most extreme tornadoes can have wind speeds exceeding 300 miles per hour (480 kilometers per hour). These high winds can cause devastating damage to structures and vegetation.
Damage Path: Tornadoes often leave a narrow, twisting path of destruction in their wake. This path is known as the tornado's track. The width of the track can range from just a few yards to more than a mile (a few meters to several kilometers).
Tornado Scale: The Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale is commonly used to categorize tornadoes based on the estimated wind speeds and the damage they cause. The scale ranges from EF0 (weakest) to EF5 (strongest). An EF5 tornado can cause complete destruction of well -built houses and even lift cars off the ground.
Warning Systems: Meteorologists use radar and other weather-monitoring tools to detect and predict tornadoes. When conditions are favorable for tornado formation, tornado warnings are issued to alert the public of the potential danger.
Lifespan: Tornadoes can last anywhere from a few seconds to several hours. Most tornadoes have a relatively short lifespan, but some long-track tornadoes can persist for many miles and over an extended period.
Tornado Alley: Tornadoes are more common in certain regions of the world, particularly in the central United States, which is often referred to as "Tornado Alley." Other regions with high tornado activity include parts of Canada, South America, Asia, and Europe.
Safety during a tornado:
If you find yourself in an area under a tornado warning or if you spot a tornado approaching, follow these safety guidelines:
Seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building, preferably in a basement or a small interior room on the lowest floor. Avoid windows.
If you are in a mobile home or temporary structure, evacuate and seek sturdier shelter.
If caught outside or in a vehicle, do not try to outrun the tornado. Instead, seek shelter in a low-lying area, like a ditch, and cover your head with your hands to protect yourself from flying debris.
Stay informed about the tornado's location and movements by listening to weather updates on a battery- powered weather radio or through your mobile device.
Remember, tornadoes are extremely dangerous and unpredictable, so it is crucial to take tornado warnings seriously and prioritize your safety.
Pfizer
It seems like you might be referring to "Pfizer," which is a well-known pharmaceutical company. Pfizer Inc. is an American multinational pharmaceutical corporation that is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies. It was founded in 1849 and has its headquarters in New York City.
Pfizer is involved in the research, development, manufacture, and marketing of a wide range of medications and vaccines to treat various medical conditions. They are known for producing drugs in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular, oncology, immunology, neurology, and rare diseases.
One of Pfizer's most significant contributions to public health was the development of the COVID-19 vaccine, jointly developed with the German company BioNTech. The vaccine, known as the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, was one of the first vaccines to receive emergency use authorization and later full approval in many countries for preventing COVID-19.
Pfizer continues to be a major player in the pharmaceutical industry, investing in research and development to bring new drugs and treatments to the market and to address various health challenges worldwide. As with any pharmaceutical company, it is essential for them to adhere to rigorous safety standards and regulatory guidelines while providing medications and vaccines to the public.
Nash county
Nash County is a county located in the state of North Carolina, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state and is part of the Rocky Mount Metropolitan Statistical Area. The county was named after General Francis Nash, a Revolutionary War hero.
Key facts about Nash County:
County Seat: The county seat of Nash County is Nashville, which is not to be confused with the capital city of Tennessee with the same name.
Geography: Nash County is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including fertile plains and rolling hills. The Tar River flows through the county, providing water resources and recreational opportunities.
Economy: Historically, Nash County's economy has been largely dependent on agriculture, with crops like tobacco, cotton, and soybeans being significant contributors. However, over time, the county's economy has diversified to include manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail sectors.
Rocky Mount: The city of Rocky Mount is the largest city in Nash County and serves as an important economic and cultural hub in the region.
Education: Nash County is served by the Nash- Rocky Mount Public Schools system, which provides education to students in the area.
Healthcare: Nash County has several healthcare facilities, including Nash UNC Health Care, which offers medical services to residents.
Recreation: The county offers various recreational opportunities, including parks, nature reserves, and opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities along the Tar River.
Nash County, like many other regions, has a rich history and cultural heritage. Its communities are known for their hospitality and Southern charm. If you plan to visit or learn more about Nash County, you may find numerous attractions, events, and places that showcase the area's unique identity.
Rocky Mount
Rocky Mount is a city located in Edgecombe and Nash counties in the state of North Carolina, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state and is part of the Rocky Mount Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is named after the rocky mound at the falls of the Tar River, which served as a significant landmark for early travelers.
Key facts about Rocky Mount:
Location: Rocky Mount is located about halfway between the cities of Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, and Greenville. It is well-positioned along major transportation routes, including Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 64.
History: The area around Rocky Mount was first settled in the mid- 18th century, and the town was officially incorporated in 1867. Over the years, it has grown into a regional center for industry, commerce, and culture.
Economy: Historically, Rocky Mount's economy was based on agriculture and tobacco processing. However, like many other cities, it has diversified its economy over time. Today, it is home to various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and distribution centers.
Attractions: Rocky Mount offers a range of attractions and cultural venues, such as the Rocky Mount Mills, a historic cotton mill turned into a mixed-use development with shops, restaurants, and apartments. The city is also known for the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences, which houses a museum, art galleries, and a performing arts theater.
Education: The city is served by the Nash- Rocky Mount Public Schools system, providing education to students in the area. There are also several institutions of higher education nearby, including North Carolina Wesleyan College and Edgecombe Community College.
Sports: Rocky Mount has a strong sports culture, and it hosts various youth and amateur sports events. Additionally, the city has produced several notable athletes who have excelled in various sports.
Outdoor Activities: The Tar River, which flows through Rocky Mount, offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities.
Rocky Mount continues to evolve as a vibrant community with a blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Its location and accessibility make it a strategic point for travelers and businesses in eastern North Carolina. Whether you're interested in exploring its historical sites, enjoying outdoor activities, or experiencing its cultural offerings, Rocky Mount has something to offer for residents and visitors alike.
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