A severe thunderstorm has forced the early shutdown of the Balloon Payload Test Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The agency reported that the storm had reached dangerous levels, prompting safety concerns for personnel and equipment.
The facility will remain closed until further notice, with affected personnel and families being kept up to date on developments through the NASA app and social media channels.
Teams had been conducting a series of tests in preparation for the upcoming Artemis I mission, which will be the first uncrewed flight of the Space Launch System rocket, set to take off later this year.
"The safety of our employees and the protection of our equipment are our top priorities," said a NASA spokesperson. "We will resume testing when it is safe to do so."
The storm, which included heavy rain and strong winds, caused widespread power outages throughout the region.
"The storm was not just a nuisance, it was a serious safety threat," said a local resident. "I'm just glad everyone is safe."
As the nation prepares for the upcoming hurricane season, residents are being reminded to have a plan in place and stay informed through reliable sources.
The severe weather has brought operations to a halt at the Kennedy Space Center, highlighting the importance of safety protocols and emergency preparedness in the face of extreme weather events.