Kansas gov. issues state of disaster emergency due to severe weather threat

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Kansas Governor Laura Kelly is issuing a state of disaster emergency Monday due to the impending arrival of severe weather.

The Kansas Adjutant General's Department made the announcement on May 6 that Kelly issued a verbal declaration of a state of disaster emergency. This declaration activates the Kansas Response Plan and will allow state agency resources to be made available to communities in need. Current forecasts show large hail, strong winds and tornadic activity are all possible.

“This declaration provides emergency managers across the state the necessary tools to prepare their personnel and equipment ahead of the storms,” Kelly said. “Kansans are urged to postpone outdoor activities. Stay updated on local weather conditions by listening to a NOAA weather radio or local TV and radio stations. If a warning is sounded, take cover immediately and continue to listen to these weather information sources for instructions.”

Jane Welch with the Adjutant General's Department says scattered to numerous severe thunderstorms are possible as they move east across the state. Severe weather becomes more likely around 4 p.m.

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