TOPEKA, Kan. (KAKE) - Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly has issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation due to severe weather expected to impact the state Monday.

The declaration provides emergency managers across the state the necessary tools to prepare their personnel and equipment ahead of the storms

“Kansans are urged to postpone outdoor activities. Stay updated on local weather conditions by listening to a NOAA weather radio or local TV and radio stations," Gov. Kelly said in a release. "If a warning is sounded, take cover immediately and continue to listen to these weather information sources for instructions.”

Scattered to numerous severe thunderstorms are expected to move east to northeast across the region this afternoon and evening. An outbreak of severe weather is possible, especially across southern Kansas, after about 4 p.m. The most intense storms may generate baseball to softball sized hail, very damaging winds up to 80 mph, and tornadoes. A few of the tornadoes could be strong and potentially long-track before 11 p.m."

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management will activate the State Emergency Operations Center at a Level 2 (Partial) beginning at 2 p.m. to monitor the weather and stay connected with county emergency managers and provide assistance if requested.


Stay tuned for details as the forecast evolves. We’ll keep you up to date with our Interactive Radar and LIVE weather coverage. Get those features and more on the free First Alert Weather App. With the app you can track storms in your area, stream the latest forecast videos and live severe weather coverage, and set customized alerts to keep you and your family informed and safe.