The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-2 tornado hit Riley County on Thursday, June 4, producing estimated maximum winds of 120 mph from 5:13 p.m. to 5:23 p.m. Local emergency officials say there were no injuries or fatalities, and they activated outdoor
In Riley County, Kansas, the storm didn’t hang around for hours. It showed up fast—then was gone by 5:23 p.m.—leaving officials to confirm what residents had feared once the tornado was over.
The National Weather Service confirmed Riley County saw an EF-2 tornado on Thursday, June 4, according to the NWS’ preliminary local storm report. The tornado was present from 5:13 p.m. through 5:23 p.m., and its max wind speed was estimated at 120 mph.
There were no injuries or fatalities reported. Damage consistent with an EF-2 tornado was reported at a home on Union Road. Additional structural damage was also reported along the east side of Riley County.
While the NWS later confirmed the tornado. Riley County Emergency Management says it began preparing the public earlier—after residents called in with reports of a tornado sighting. Emergency Management says dispatch activated outdoor warning sirens in the City of Riley on Thursday evening. even though the NWS had not issued a tornado warning yet.
“We want to thank residents for calling to report the tornado sighting yesterday evening,” said Laurie Harrison, Riley County Emergency Management Coordinator. Harrison said there was no tornado watch or thunderstorm warning in effect, and that the storm “popped up very quickly.”
After the sirens were activated, some residents reported not hearing the warning. Emergency Management said personnel then worked with the siren maintenance company to figure out what went wrong. The problem was determined to be mechanical, and repairs are expected to be completed next week.
Flooding also disrupted travel during the same period, but emergency officials say roads in the area that were closed due to flooding are now reopened. Emergency Management also said several people were rescued from stranded vehicles in the Manhattan area Thursday night.
For residents planning the next stretch of weather, the warning window isn’t closed. Chances of storms remain throughout this weekend.
Riley County Kansas National Weather Service EF-2 tornado Union Road outdoor warning sirens Manhattan emergency management severe weather June 4