SANTA ANA, Calif.—Yokohama Corp. of North America is extending the closures of its tire plants in Mississippi and Virginia “until further notice” due to the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yokohama idled operations at its West Point, Miss., truck tire plant on March 27 and at its car/light truck tire plant in Salem, Va., on April 5.

Yokohama said it initiated the controlled shutdowns to help stem the spread of COVID-19. Several “preventive measures” also are in effect at all company facilities

To help ensure the health and safety of all personnel upon their return, the plants have undergone sterilization and decontamination measures while production is idled.

All other facilities remain open and operational, Yokohama said, including all U.S. distribution centers where Yokohama’s supply position is “healthy.” Efforts to mitigate any disruptions are ongoing.