Topic: Debris

Reporter Ben Russell provides a live update from the ground in West, describing heavy machinery debris and remnants of a grain silo scattered across the area. Fires continue to burn in nearby barns and outbuildings as emergency personnel navigate a landscape covered in aluminum siding and destroyed vehicles.

Roofing manufacturers require shingles to be cut back two to three inches from the valley center to ensure a clean flow of water. Failure to maintain this gap leads to trapped debris and organic matter that prevents the valley from washing clean during rain events.

Jane C. Graham describes the physical experience of the Oklahoma City bombing, testifying that there were two distinct events. She reports an initial "waving" or earthquake-like movement lasting several seconds, followed by a massive upward explosion from the center of the building. She recounts being knocked unconscious and rescued from the debris by coworkers Sonia Key and Joy McGirth.