In the wake of destructive storms that struck Kansas on Sunday night and Monday morning, Governor Laura Kelly has issued a state of disaster emergency for the affected areas. The storm, accompanied by winds reaching up to 80 miles per hour, left homes damaged, trees uprooted, and power lines downed.

Residents, like Kim Warne from Valley Center, woke up to the devastating aftermath of the storm, with suspicions that a tornado may have touched down on their properties. Governor Kelly's declaration activates the Kansas Response Plan, enabling state agencies to promptly provide assistance to affected communities.

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management is now working to coordinate requests for support from the impacted counties. Their aim is to efficiently allocate resources and aid to those who need it the most. In addition to assessing the damage, the National Weather Service will be conducting further investigations on Monday to determine whether tornadoes or straight-line winds were responsible for the destruction.

The storm's fierce winds wreaked havoc across central Kansas, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Buildings were not spared from the damage, as some structures were severely impacted by the powerful gusts.

With the disaster declaration in effect, affected communities can now look to the state for expedited assistance and resources to help them recover and rebuild. Governor Kelly expressed her commitment to supporting those affected by the storm, ensuring that necessary aid reaches them in a timely manner.

As the cleanup efforts get underway, residents and local authorities will work together to restore normalcy in the affected areas. The resilience of Kansans will undoubtedly be on display as they come together to rebuild and overcome the challenges brought forth by this natural disaster.

Governor Kelly's proactive response, in issuing the state of disaster emergency, sets the stage for swift and effective aid to impacted communities. Through collaboration and support, Kansas will prevail over this unexpected trial and emerge stronger than before.