Kansas town struck by EF-2 tornado, dozens of homes destroyed

HILLSDALE, Kan. (KCTV/Gray News) - Dozens of homes were destroyed Monday in a Kansas town after a severe storm moved through the area that produced an EF-2 tornado.

Road and bridge crews worked all night clearing debris from most roadways in Hillsdale after the powerful storm left about 60 homes significantly damaged.

According to the National Weather Service, its survey team found that the EF-2 tornado touched down in the area that had maximum wind gusts of 115 mph.

Officials said around 100 homes were impacted, with damage ranging from minor to total loss. Crews also worked to de-energize power lines and moved them off roadways.

With a population of about 130, most people in Hillsdale were affected by the storm. Authorities said, luckily, the only reported injuries were minor, without anyone reported missing.

Cleanup will require regional and state resources, including tree, cleanup and trash services, as well as food and water, after an emergency declaration. Officials said the work will take days to weeks, with repairs continuing for months.

Evergy, the local utility company, said it will have to replace about 50 power poles and plans to restore power to the area as soon as possible.

Officials said the next cleanup steps include completing searches with the codes department, assessing the habitability and safety of buildings before opening the area to volunteers. The Red Cross is also assisting.