By the Associated Press:
UPDATE: The National Weather Service has confirmed that tornadoes caused extensive damage late Friday and early Saturday in the western Kansas communities of Sharon Springs and Selden. The tornadoes were rated EF-1, with winds of 86 to 110 miles an hour.
National Weather Service officials were in western Kansas Saturday to assess damage from a strong storm and a possible tornado that damaged buildings in Sharon Springs and elsewhere, authorities said.
Officials say the late Friday storm rolled through numerous Kansas cities, including Grainfield, Mingo and Winona. Large hail was reported in Leoti, Colby, Holcomb, Ulysses, Hugoton and Garden City. There were no immediate reports of injuries.
Sharon Springs, located in far western Wallace County, seem to take the brunt of the damage. Photos posted on social media sites show roofs on large buildings that are caved in or gone and debris scattered around city streets. County officials said most of the damage was on the east side of Sharon Springs.
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall took to social media to voice support for first responders and community members in Sharon Springs. He said the state stands ready to assist those in need.
State Rep. Adam Smith referred to the weather as “tornadic activity.”
“It’s difficult to look at the devastation and praise God,” Smith said. “But sometimes we never realize the mercy and protection he provides in tragedies avoided.”
