The National Weather Service says a confirmed tornado Tuesday night caused damage across nearly three quarters of Sioux Falls. High winds hit several Avera buildings, including the Avera Heart Hospital and behavioral Health Hospital. David Flicek is the President and CEO of Avera McKennan Hospital. He says the drills they do, paid off.
“I’ve got to tell you, our staff was courageous. They had ten minutes to wake up 110 residents, get them to the center of the building and all are safe and sound. So we’re very pleased with that. We had several people who had some minor injuries from some roof coming in on them but nothing severe so we’re happy with that. All are safe and sound.”
Flicek says the Behavioral Health Hospital won’t open for about three to six months. The Avera Heart Hospital is still taking patients and is expected to fully reopen by the middle of next week.