Tornado causes major damage in Kansas

A tornado that swept through parts of the state of Kansas, destroying or damaging hundreds of buildings, injuring several people and leaving more than 15,000 residents without power. Large hail was also seen in places.

According to the National Weather Service, hail the size of small balls was seen near Holbrook, Nebraska, and in Enterprise, Kansas.

On the morning of April 30, emergency crews found more damage than previously thought. Despite the extent of the disaster, there were no fatalities or serious injuries. Only a few injuries were reported. Rescue operations continued on April 30, involving more than two hundred first responders. Work is continuing to restore power to the city.

Andover Fire Chief Chad Russell said some homes were “completely destroyed.” City Hall, the YMCA Christian Youth Association and Prairie Creek Elementary School were badly damaged.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly declared a state of emergency in the hardest hit areas. This allows state resources to be used to help the affected municipalities.