May 01, 2024

One confirmed death in Pottawatomie County tornado

Posted May 01, 2024 12:52 AM
Picture of the Tuesday tornado by Kristen Krainbill. The view is facing west from the Charlson and Wilson offices located at 108 N 2nd in Westmoreland. The buildings in the picture are the Pottawatomie County Courthouse and Jail and County offices.
Picture of the Tuesday tornado by Kristen Krainbill. The view is facing west from the Charlson and Wilson offices located at 108 N 2nd in Westmoreland. The buildings in the picture are the Pottawatomie County Courthouse and Jail and County offices.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—One person has died from injuries in the Tuesday afternoon tornado in Pottawatomie County, according to County Spokesperson Becky Ryan.

In addition to the fatality, three others were treated for injuries.

Just after 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, a tornado struck Westmoreland, according to a statement from the county.

At this time, there are reports of damage to multiple structures in the city. Officials did reopen Highway 99 to traffic.

Multiple first responders have arrived in Westmoreland to conduct grid searches to catalog damage and search for more people that may have been injured.  Officials ask the general public to please keep away from the area at this time.

At 8p.m., a temporary shelter opened at Rock Creek High School, 9355 Flush Road, for those displaced due to the the tornado.

Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.