Weather
Large and extremely dangerous tornado on the ground near Greensburg, Kansas
GREENSBURG, KS — A Tornado Emergency has been issued for Greensburg and surrounding communities in Kiowa County after a large, violent, and extremely dangerous tornado touched down near the city late Sunday night.
The National Weather Service in Dodge City, Kansas, confirmed the tornado just before 9:50 p.m. CDT, describing it as a “particularly dangerous situation” and urging all residents to take immediate shelter.
At 9:47 p.m. CDT, a confirmed wedge tornado — known for its massive width and devastating potential — was located approximately 1.5 miles south of Greensburg, moving northeast at 30 mph.
Forecasters described the tornado as large and destructive, capable of producing catastrophic damage. The situation drew immediate comparisons to the deadly EF5 tornado that struck Greensburg in May 2007, which destroyed approximately 95% of the city and killed 11 people.
The tornado emergency warning is the most severe level issued by the National Weather Service, indicating an ongoing or imminent threat to human life and catastrophic damage.
The alert emphasized the seriousness of the storm, stating: “This is a particularly dangerous situation. TAKE COVER NOW!”
Residents across the area, including Greensburg and nearby rural communities, were urged to seek underground shelter or move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy structure.
Emergency sirens sounded throughout the region as the massive tornado approached.
Live radar and storm chasers confirmed the tornado’s presence, showing a well-defined debris signature and significant rotation.
Early reports suggest the tornado may already have caused damage south of town, though officials have not yet confirmed the extent.
Local authorities, including emergency services and storm spotters, remain on high alert as the storm continues its path northeastward.
Updates will be issued as more information becomes available.
All residents are urged to stay tuned to local news outlets, NOAA Weather Radio, or official emergency alert systems for the latest developments.
NEW JERSEY – Torrential rainfall has triggered widespread flash flooding across northern New Jersey, leaving roadways submerged, traffic paralyzed, and numerous motorists stranded.
In response to the rapidly deteriorating conditions, Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency Monday evening at 7:33 p.m., urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
“Please stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay safe, New Jersey,” Murphy wrote in a statement released on social media.
The flash flooding has severely impacted several major roadways, including:
- Route 22: Entire sections of the highway were completely underwater, with numerous vehicles stalled in rising floodwaters. Emergency responders are on scene assisting trapped motorists.
- New Jersey Turnpike: Near Newark, both northbound and southbound lanes experienced heavy flooding, resulting in lane closures and significant traffic delays. Some areas of the Turnpike are reported to be completely impassable as water levels continue to rise.
Residents described scenes of devastation, with roads transformed into rivers and entire neighborhoods inundated. Video footage from affected areas shows cars partially submerged, and water rushing through intersections and parking lots.
Officials have issued a strong warning: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Flash flooding remains an active threat as more rain is forecast throughout the evening and into Tuesday.
Emergency management teams across the state are working to coordinate response efforts, deploy high-water rescue vehicles, and mitigate further flooding.
Despite the swift response, public reaction has been mixed, with some residents criticizing the timing and preparedness of local and state agencies.
One social media user remarked, “Don’t bother calling FEMA, nobody will answer,” reflecting growing frustration over emergency response delays.
The duration of the State of Emergency remains unclear, but officials stress that residents should continue to monitor official alerts, follow emergency guidance, and contact 2-1-1 for shelter assistance if displaced.
If you are experiencing a flood-related emergency, contact local authorities immediately.
This is a developing situation. More updates will follow as the weather event continues to unfold.