Yesterday, the Makin’ The Hit UAS/Robotics Team was simultaneously requested into York County and Columbia/Lancaster County as powerful storms and confirmed tornadoes moved through the region.
Our team deployed advanced UAS technology to assist public safety agencies with damage assessment, scene safety, life-safety operations and aerial intelligence—giving responders an elevated view of areas that were too dangerous or difficult to assess from the ground.
The National Weather Service has now confirmed two tornadoes from Thursday’s storm event:
🌪️ Eastern York County — EF2
- Estimated peak winds: 120 MPH
- Path length: 1.07 miles
- Maximum width: 100 yards
- Significant damage occurred at Eastern York High School, including major roof damage to classrooms and the auditorium.
- One injury was reported.
🌪️ Columbia, Lancaster County — EF1
- Estimated peak winds: 100 MPH
- Path length: 1.47 miles
- Maximum width: 100 yards
- Significant structural damage was reported, including damage to an old firehouse, roofs, outbuildings, trees and other structures.
These storms demonstrated exactly why UAS and robotics technology has become such a valuable tool for emergency services. From above, our team can help identify hazards, document damage, locate access points and provide critical information to command staff—without unnecessarily putting additional personnel in harm’s way.
From York County to Columbia, our team was there when the call came.
We don’t just talk about technology—we put it to work for those who serve.
MAKIN’ THE HIT
Coverin’ Your First Due. 🚁🔥
We are proud to stand alongside the fire departments, emergency management agencies, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel and all of the first responders who worked through this severe weather event.
When the weather hits hard, we hit back with technology.
