Direct Relief’s Emergency Response Team has offered assistance to its health center partners in Nebraska following twin tornadoes that devastated the town of Pilger and surrounding areas on Monday.

Two people – including a five-year-old – died during the storm and 16 people were critically injured, reports CNN.

The Emergency Team also reached out to partners in four other states where severe storms occurred.

Direct Relief has emergency supplies stocked in its warehouse, including family emergency kits, that are on hand and ready to ship to people affected by the storms.

As clean up efforts begin, Direct Relief will stand ready to respond to any requests for assistance that may arise. Clean up and rescue activities can cause as many injuries as the storm itself. Falling objects and sharp debris, like nails, can cause acute wounds and put people at risk of contracting bacterial diseases, such as tetanus. Damaged power lines, gas lines, or electrical systems can increase risk of fire, electrocution, or an explosion.

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