Tornado’s Lasting Impact: Oklahoma’s NuCera Plant Closure Devastates Small Town
The town of Barnsdall faces a severe economic setback as NuCera Solutions, the town’s largest employer, announces its permanent closure following devastating damage from an EF4 tornado in May. The decision, revealed through employee notifications this week, marks the end of a significant chapter in the small town’s industrial history.
Chase Corporation, NuCera’s parent company, cited the extensive damage and financial infeasibility of restoring the facility as the primary reasons for the closure. In a statement, the company expressed deep regret, saying, “We love this community and had always planned on being a part of it for many years.”
The closure will be phased over the next year, allowing employees time to seek new opportunities. In compliance with the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, NuCera has filed notices with the Oklahoma Office of Workforce Development, giving workers the mandated 60-day notice.