MARION, N.C. — Historic flooding from Helene has paused operations at the largest manufacturer of intravenous and peritoneal dialysis solutions in the United States.
Baxter International Inc. closed its North Cove site Sunday after "unprecedented rain and extensive flooding" to western North Carolina. Heavy rains and storm surge triggered a levee breach, according to a release from the company. Baxter said bridges accessing the site have also been damaged.
On Oct. 3, Baxter said that the unprecedented rain "resulted in water permeating the facility." At this time, no timeline has been announced for when operations will be back up and running.
“Our hearts and thoughts are with all those affected by Hurricane Helene,” Baxter President and CEO José E. Almeida said. “The safety of our employees, their families, and the communities in which we operate remains our utmost concern, and we are committed to helping ensure reliable supply of products to patients."
Almeida said Sunday Baxter will spare no resource -- human or financial -- to resume production. The Baxter International Foundation has committed $1.5 million in donations to its humanitarian aid partners to help address recovery needs. The foundation is also matching employee donations to relief efforts.
Baxter's North Cove facility is the company's largest and includes more than 2,500 employees.
North Cove is in McDowell County about two hours northwest of Charlotte, North Carolina. McDowell County is also the origin point of the flood-prone Catawba River.
For those who want to help, WCNC Charlotte has partnered with the American Red Cross to help gather donations to go to efforts that will help people impacted by Helene and with the nonprofit Operation Airdrop to get much-needed supplies to the mountain counties. Here's how you can help people impacted by Helene.
