Tornado Outbreaks

Andover, Kansas struck by intense damaging tornado

Tornado watchers know the name. Andover, Kansas. The city was struck by an F5 tornado during a major tornado outbreak in April 1991.

Andover was hit again during a regional tornado outbreak Friday that focused its fury on the eastern half of Kansas and Nebraska. The Andover tornado was one of what was probably more than a dozen twisters, but it seems to be by far the most intense of the day.

Given the tornado’s apparently strong to violent nature on video as it passed through parts of Andover, the fact there are only a handful of injuries reported thus far is quite remarkable. KAKE out of Wichita was reporting at least one serious injury as of publish, with initial emergency response to the tornado ongoing.

Initial radar analysis suggests that the tornado will be rated in the EF3 to EF4 range. Debris was tossed to 21,000 feet.

The mayor of Wichita tweeted that 50-100 structures were damaged, mainly in Andover but also in eastern Wichita. In a news briefing, it was stated that almost 1,000 structures were in the tornado’s path, although it was unclear how much each was affected.

This is a developing story

The following two tabs change content below.
Information lead and forecaster for the Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang.

Latest posts by Ian Livingston (see all)

Ian Livingston

Information lead and forecaster for the Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang.

Share
Published by
Ian Livingston

Recent Posts

The Storm Doctor: Dr. Jason Persoff

Jason Persoff, MD, SFHM, is recognized globally for his expertise in storm chasing. He earned…

3 months ago

Top tornado videos of 2023

Tornado numbers were near or above average. A chase season peak in June provided numerous…

4 months ago

March 31, 2023 tornado outbreak videos

One of the more widespread tornado outbreaks in years, from Iowa and Illinois to Arkansas.

1 year ago

Spring 2023 seasonal tornado outlook

The active start of the year could be a sign, but a mid-March pattern change…

1 year ago

Top tornado videos of 2022

A near average year for tornadoes across the country, with a cool season bend. We've…

1 year ago

Georgia sees second EF4 in as many years

On April 5, a slew of supercells slammed Georgia. One spawned a violent tornado near…

2 years ago