CAPTION: A tornado struck the city of Plevna in Reno County early Monday morning. CREDIT MICHAEL GLENN/THE HUTCHINSON TRIBUNE
By Michael Glenn
PLEVNA – A tornado ripped through the City of Plevna, a town of about 85 in Reno County, at roughly Midnight Monday.
The city received significant tree damage with multiple destroyed homes and structures. No deaths or injuries were reported following the tornado.
The American Red Cross set up roughly six miles east of Plevna in the Abbyville Community Center. Regional Shelter Program Lead Jerry Conyers said the place is open for those who need assistance in Plevna or who need to get out of the heat or possibly poor weather conditions this afternoon and evening.
Conyers said he has been at the community center since around 3 a.m. Monday, and that the Red Cross would be in Abbyville through the evening for those who need them.
“We’re here so people can come if they need resources, charge their phone,” Conyers said. “The Red Cross is kind of short-term to get you to that motel room or back on your feet. It’s the process of what the Red Cross does.”
Conyers said the Red Cross will first start with an on-site assessment of damage with the Distribution of Emergency Supplies (DES). The DES will bring rakes, shovels, tarps, buckets and other tools to help residents clean up and salvage the area.
Once the damage has been assessed, possible financial assistance can be distributed based on need. Those who need help can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800–733–2767) and calls will be directed to the shelter in Abbyville.
Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst was present at the shelter and said he was watching the storm from about three miles north of Plevna. He said he is grateful to individuals and businesses who have stepped up to help clean the city and brought in special equipment to deal with the damage.
“There was one house that was really damaged,” Hirst said. “Neighbors are there, assisting [with what] they can. It’s a great turnout for everyone around.”
Hirst said Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall also called him this morning and asked if they could be of any assistance. Senior U.S. Senator Jerry Moran also released a statement this morning as well as U.S. Congressman Tracey Mann.
Editor’s note: More information about this story will be published when it is released.
