On Friday, September 27, 2024, a severe EF-3 tornado with winds of up to 225 km/h (140 mph) struck the city of Rocky Mount in Nash County, North Carolina, causing widespread destruction and injuring 15 people. The tornado, which was part of a larger storm system caused by Tropical Depression "Helene," left a trail of devastation in its wake, particularly at the Tiffany Square Shopping Center. The brief but powerful tornado measured 90 m (295 feet) wide, traveled 0.40 km (0.25 miles), and lasted only three minutes, yet its impact was significant.
The tornado's powerful winds caused considerable damage to the Tiffany Square Shopping Center, with fourteen structures affected, including businesses such as Respracare, Hing Ta Restaurant, and Alpha Automotive. The storm also threw vehicles around, demonstrating its immense force. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but the 15 people injured were transported to UNC Health Nash, with four in serious condition. A hospital spokesperson reported that two individuals suffered "major injuries," while eight others were treated for minor injuries in the Emergency Department.
The tornado's aftermath was met with a swift response from emergency services, with personnel quickly mobilized to the affected neighborhoods. Later that evening, Mayor Saunders Roberson Jr. declared a state of emergency to manage recovery activities, which was set to last until 21:00 UTC on Sunday, September 29, unless extended. The declaration of a state of emergency marked the beginning of the recovery process for the affected residents and businesses.
The EF-3 tornado that struck Rocky Mount was part of a larger storm system caused by Tropical Depression "Helene," which had already triggered multiple tornado warnings and caused extensive flooding in western North Carolina. As of early September 29, the death toll caused by Hurricane "Helene" in the United States exceeded 65. The storm had been downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone by Friday evening, with maximum sustained winds of 56 km/h (35 mph) as it moved across the Appalachian Mountains. Despite its downgrading, the storm continued to cause damaging wind gusts throughout the night across the Carolinas, Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky.
In conclusion, the EF-3 tornado that struck Rocky Mount on Friday, September 27, 2024, was a devastating event that caused significant damage and injury. However, the community's response to the disaster has been remarkable, with emergency services, residents, and businesses coming together to support those affected. As the city begins the long process of rebuilding and recovering, the residents of Rocky Mount can take comfort in knowing that they are not alone. The impact of the tornado will be significant, but with the community's resilience and determination, the city will undoubtedly emerge stronger and more united than ever before.
