Stanley Fire and Rescue units responded to nearly 25 calls within a two hour period Wednesday afternoon during a severe storm that struck the Stanley area around 6:30 pm. Fire Chief Terry Pettit reported that damage is widespread throughout the entire area with power lines down and trees blocking the roadways. One house on Pond Avenue was completely destroyed when it was blown off its foundation and turned upside down with the family inside. Pettit stated that somehow they were not injured. Many residents in the area reported seeing what appeared to be a tornado with golf ball size hail falling along with the rain and heavy rains.

A poultry house on Kite Hollow Road was also completely destroyed with 20,000 chickens inside. A large metal building used for storage located at the VDOT maintenance shop on Forrest Drive was also destroyed along with many other houses who suffered roof damage or had garage or carport damage. Many storage buildings were also destroyed. Chief Pettit reported that damaged totals had already reached $250,000.00 but would be waiting on Page County Emergency Services Coordinator Gene Stewart to finish assessing the damage later on today. The Red Cross will also be arriving later on today to assist any residents who need shelter. Allegheny Power along with the Virginia Dept. of Transportation will be also working throughout the night to restore power and reopen roads.

Terry A. Pettit,
Stanley Fire Chief