GREENSBURG, KS – Sunday, 9:50 p.m. CDTA life-threatening weather emergency is unfolding in south-central Kansas tonight as two tornadoes are currently in progress near Greensburg, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a rare and urgent Tornado Emergency for Greensburg and surrounding areas in Kiowa County.
At approximately 9:50 p.m. CDT, the NWS office in Dodge City confirmed that a large, violent, and extremely dangerous tornado had touched down near Greensburg. The agency described the situation as a “particularly dangerous situation (PDS)”, the most serious classification issued for tornadic activity, reserved for events with a high likelihood of producing devastating impacts.
Shortly after the initial tornado was reported, a second tornado was confirmed in the vicinity, intensifying the threat for the region. Radar imagery and storm chaser footage have shown classic supercell structures and powerful rotation signatures, indicating the presence of multi-vortex tornadoes.
Residents Urged to Take Immediate Action
Authorities are urging all residents in Greensburg, Mullinville, Haviland, and nearby rural communities to take immediate shelter. The NWS alert emphasized that “this is a life-threatening situation. Flying debris will be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles is expected.”
Those in the path of the storm are advised to:
- Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
- Avoid windows and cover themselves with a mattress or heavy blankets.
- Do not attempt to drive through the storm or seek shelter under an overpass.
Emergency Services on High Alert
Local emergency management officials, firefighters, and law enforcement have activated emergency response protocols. Tornado sirens sounded across Greensburg just before 10:00 p.m., and shelters have been opened in designated public buildings. Power outages have already been reported in parts of Kiowa County as the storm system continues to move eastward.
The Kansas Highway Patrol has also issued warnings for travelers to avoid U.S. Route 54 and adjacent roadways as visibility has dropped to near zero due to debris, rain-wrapped funnels, and flying dust.
Tornado History in Greensburg
This situation is especially alarming for the residents of Greensburg, who still bear the scars of the EF5 tornado that destroyed 95% of the city in May 2007, killing 11 people and leaving a lasting impact on the community. That event remains one of the most powerful tornadoes in U.S. history.
Forecast and Ongoing Coverage
Meteorologists are monitoring the supercell cluster as it continues to develop. Conditions remain highly volatile, and additional tornadoes could form overnight as the system moves across central Kansas.
Live updates will continue to be provided by local news stations, the National Weather Service, and storm chasers in the field. Authorities are urging residents not to rely solely on tornado sirens, as power outages or weather conditions may render them ineffective. Instead, use NOAA Weather Radios, trusted weather apps, or follow official NWS social media for real-time alerts.
Summary
- Two tornadoes confirmed near Greensburg, KS.
- Tornado Emergency issued for Kiowa County.
- Residents should seek shelter immediately.
- Storm is ongoing and extremely dangerous.
- Stay tuned to local news and weather alerts.
This is a developing situation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Stay safe, Kansas.
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