Strong storms in the middle U.S. on Tuesday resulted in tornadoes in Kansas and Iowa, with an EF-1 tornado touching down near Richland, Kansas. The tornado had winds up to 100 mph and caused an RV to flip over, injuring two people. Buildings and trees were also damaged in the area. In Iowa, a tornado destroyed a barn and caused damage to other structures in Dallas County. Ping pong ball-sized hail was reported in Bloomfield, with no immediate reports of injuries. The central U.S. was under threat of severe weather, with thunderstorms expected in parts of Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and northwestern Illinois, potentially bringing large hail and damaging winds.
In Missouri, a Chicago-bound American Eagle flight had to return to Kansas City International Airport just after takeoff due to a possible lightning strike. The aircraft was being inspected for damage, and passengers were put on other flights. In the area around Smithville Lake in western Missouri, a camper was blown over and a building had its roof ripped off during a strong storm. Downed trees and power lines were reported in communities near Kansas City.
The National Weather Service warned of continued severe weather through Tuesday, with thunderstorms expected in several states. The threat included large hail and damaging winds, with some isolated storms possible in the mid-South. In addition to the tornadoes and hail reported in Kansas and Iowa, there was damage to buildings and trees in the neighboring town of Overbrook, Kansas. The storms caused havoc in the central U.S., with reports of damage and injuries.
Residents in the affected areas were urged to stay safe and take precautions during the severe weather. Emergency responders were on hand to assist with any damage or injuries resulting from the storms. The ongoing threat of severe weather highlighted the importance of staying informed and prepared for natural disasters. Authorities were monitoring the situation closely and providing updates as needed to ensure the safety of residents in the impacted regions.
