By 9jaeye 
A tragic flood triggered by Hurricane Helene swept through the Impact Plastics factory in Erwin, Tennessee, carrying away 11 workers. As floodwaters surged rapidly, employees attempted to flee, but the overwhelming force of the water made it difficult to escape. Out of the 11 workers, rescuers saved five, two tragically died, and four remain missing as search and rescue efforts continue.
Chaos as Workers Flee the Rising Waters
The heavy rainfall caused by Hurricane Helene led to a power outage at the factory, forcing management to dismiss employees. However, some workers stayed behind to deal with the rising floodwaters. According to reports, employees tried to escape the industrial park by using a truck. Unfortunately, the truck overturned due to the intense floodwaters, causing several workers to be swept away.
Despite the chaos, a second group of employees managed to escape by making their way across the CSX railroad tracks behind the facility. Workers from a nearby company provided crucial assistance, helping the group reach safety before the situation worsened.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
The management of Impact Plastics expressed deep sorrow for the loss of their workers and vowed to assist in the ongoing rescue operations. The company, while grieving, has extended its prayers and support to the families of those affected by this tragedy. Senior management immediately sought emergency assistance, leading to the deployment of rescue teams, including a National Guard helicopter, which successfully airlifted five of the rescued workers.
Rescue teams are continuing to work around the clock, combing through the floodwaters in hopes of finding the four workers who remain missing. Authorities remain on high alert as more rain is expected in the region, which could hamper rescue efforts.
Broader Impact of Hurricane Helene
This incident in Tennessee adds to the widespread devastation from Hurricane Helene, which has already claimed over 130 lives across six states, including Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. The workers’ disappearance adds to the storm’s growing toll, making Helene one of the deadliest hurricanes of the year. The floods have not only affected the local community but have also disrupted businesses, with significant damage to infrastructure in the region.
As the community continues to recover from the devastation, people in Erwin are holding onto hope, waiting anxiously for updates on the missing workers. Rescue operations will continue as long as the conditions allow, with teams working tirelessly to bring closure to the affected families.
For more details on the situation, visit Fox Weather.