As the torrential rain from Hurricane Helene intensified, workers at a plastics factory in rural Tennessee continued their duties until the situation became dire. Ultimately, the flooding led to the shutdown of the plant and the evacuation of employees. Tragically, during their escape, 11 workers were swept away by the raging floodwaters, with only five individuals being rescued. Two confirmed deaths have been reported, contributing to the overall death toll of over 150 across the affected states. The small town of Erwin, Tennessee, faced extreme challenges, with dozens of people rescued from the roof of a hospital and others still missing. Videos captured the harrowing ordeal faced by the workers, as some were stranded in vehicles by the rising water levels. Impact Plastics, the company involved, stated that it monitored weather conditions and dismissed employees when it deemed necessary. However, some workers disputed these claims, asserting that they were not allowed to evacuate despite the worsening situation. The tragic incident at the plastics factory continues to be investigated, while the survivors and the families of those who lost their lives face profound grief and hardship, seeking support through online fundraisers and community assistance initiatives.
