Weather
Large and extremely dangerous tornado on the ground near Greensburg, Kansas
GREENSBURG, KS — A Tornado Emergency has been issued for Greensburg and surrounding communities in Kiowa County after a large, violent, and extremely dangerous tornado touched down near the city late Sunday night.
The National Weather Service in Dodge City, Kansas, confirmed the tornado just before 9:50 p.m. CDT, describing it as a “particularly dangerous situation” and urging all residents to take immediate shelter.
At 9:47 p.m. CDT, a confirmed wedge tornado — known for its massive width and devastating potential — was located approximately 1.5 miles south of Greensburg, moving northeast at 30 mph.
Forecasters described the tornado as large and destructive, capable of producing catastrophic damage. The situation drew immediate comparisons to the deadly EF5 tornado that struck Greensburg in May 2007, which destroyed approximately 95% of the city and killed 11 people.
The tornado emergency warning is the most severe level issued by the National Weather Service, indicating an ongoing or imminent threat to human life and catastrophic damage.
The alert emphasized the seriousness of the storm, stating: “This is a particularly dangerous situation. TAKE COVER NOW!”
Residents across the area, including Greensburg and nearby rural communities, were urged to seek underground shelter or move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy structure.
Emergency sirens sounded throughout the region as the massive tornado approached.
Live radar and storm chasers confirmed the tornado’s presence, showing a well-defined debris signature and significant rotation.
Early reports suggest the tornado may already have caused damage south of town, though officials have not yet confirmed the extent.
Local authorities, including emergency services and storm spotters, remain on high alert as the storm continues its path northeastward.
Updates will be issued as more information becomes available.
All residents are urged to stay tuned to local news outlets, NOAA Weather Radio, or official emergency alert systems for the latest developments.
DENVER, CO — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Denver has issued a Tornado Warning for southwestern Logan County and north-central Washington County in northeastern Colorado, effective until 5:45 p.m. MDT Friday.
At 5:11 p.m., weather spotters confirmed a tornado on the ground near Merino, approximately 11 miles southwest of Sterling, moving southeast at 20 miles per hour.
The storm system is producing a dangerous and damaging tornado, with the potential for:
- Flying debris posing serious risk to those outdoors or in vehicles
- Structural damage to homes, roofs, windows, and vehicles
- Uprooted trees and downed power lines
- Total destruction of mobile homes
Communities directly in the path of the tornado include:
- Merino
- Prewitt Reservoir
- Atwood
- Logan Corners
- Willard
- Messex
Residents in these areas should seek shelter immediately. The safest option is to move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows and exterior walls.
Do not attempt to outrun the tornado in a vehicle. If no shelter is available, lie flat in a low-lying area and protect your head.
This is a confirmed tornado, not just radar-indicated. Immediate action is critical to ensuring safety.
Continue monitoring local media, NOAA weather radio, or official NWS alerts for real-time updates.