Storms Rip Through Kansas, Nebraska, Leaving Destruction Behind

ANDOVER, KS — A severe storm outbreak spawned hail, destructive winds, and tornadoes in parts of Kansas and Nebraska on Friday, one of which tore through the town of Andover, located just east of Wichita.

An estimated 966 buildings were in the tornado’s path, though it's unclear how many were damaged, the Wichita Eagle reported. Other reports said Andover City Hall and YMCA both sustained damage.

As the tornado passed through Andover, it hurled debris as high as 21,000 feet, the Washington Post reported. Early analysis suggests the tornado could've been at least an EF3.

Three people in southeast Sedgwick County were injured. Five people, including two firefighters, were treated for cuts, scratches, and falls, according to the Eagle. One had been taken to the hospital in good condition.

At a news conference Saturday morning, Andover Fire Chief Chad Russell confirmed there were no fatalities in the twister. Some homes, however, "were completely blown away."

"What we need from you right now is we need everyone to stay away from the area please," Russell said.

Gov. Laura Kelly declared a State of Disaster Emergency for the hardest-hit areas. The declaration makes state resources available to help local jurisdictions with response and recovery efforts in areas impacted statewide.

In addition to the tornadoes, large hail was reported in several towns across the Plains. Hail the size of softballs was spotted near Holbrook, Nebraska, and Enterprise, Kansas, according to the National Weather Service and storm spotters.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.