Long Beach, NY - On Thursday, August 20, just before 7:00 p.m., the Long Beach Fire Department responded mutual aid to the Inwood Fire Department after a fast-moving storm spawned a tornado that caused significant damage at the Sun & Surf Beach Club in West Atlantic Beach, located within the Inwood Fire Protection Area.

The severe weather prompted a large response from fire departments across Nassau County after initial reports indicated a structural collapse with people potentially trapped inside and others unaccounted for.

Long Beach Fire Department Ladder 2372, Engine 2344, and Heavy Rescue 232 responded to the scene, accompanied by Chief John Marino and Assistant Chiefs DiGiacomo and Reinhard. Crews assisted with search operations, utility stabilization and the removal of storm-related debris as emergency personnel worked to assess the damage and ensure the area was safe.

One minor injury was reported and treated at the scene. Fire companies remained in operation for a little more than two hours before returning to service.

The storm also kept Long Beach crews busy within the city, with the department responding to multiple alarms, including a water rescue, several automatic fire alarms and multiple EMS calls. All Long Beach incidents were handled under the command of Assistant Chief Hadrick Ray.