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Metals industry responds to hurricanes' impact.

Article Excerpt
THE TWIN HURRICANES--Katrina and Rita--that wreaked havoc on residents of the Gulf states in late August and mid-September also created a variety of problems for metals suppliers.

Metals producers and distributors warn that supply levels, deliveries and financial performance will be affected for some time. Most metals facilities shut down by the storms are back in operation, however, and many companies are providing relief for hurricane victims.

Alcoa Inc., Pittsburgh, reported Sept. 22 that "the impact of temporary closure of Alcoa's Point Comfort, Texas, alumina refinery and the Lake Charles, La., anode plant as a result of Hurricane Rita is still unknown, but will be reflected in its third-quarter results."

Northwest Pipe Co.'s third-quarter earnings will be lower than earlier estimates. "A combination of events headed by Hurricane Katrina, related transportation issues and delays at some of our key suppliers are delaying our receipt of critical raw materials" said Brian W. Dunham, president and CEO. The company temporarily closed its Houston facility in anticipation of Hurricane Rita.

"We had expected to report record revenues in this quarter, but instead have had to cut back production temporarily at four facilities" Dunham said.

NS Group Inc. reported Sept. 26 that its finishing facility in Baytown, Texas, was found to be relatively undamaged. Rene J....

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