Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued a state of disaster emergency over the weekend.
The declaration followed large hail, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall last week Aug. 18 through 19 in Wyandotte County.
“Damage assessments are currently ongoing to determine what disaster recovery assistance may be available,” Kansas Division of Emergency Management (KDEM) spokesperson Jane Welch told NTD.
Kansas City, Kansas is located in Wyandotte County. It is the third largest city in Kansas.
“We know the people of Wyandotte County are facing a long road to recovery after these devastating storms,” Kelly said. “Our priority is making sure residents have the support and resources they need to safely clean up, restore power, and begin rebuilding.”
The KDEM and the State Emergency Operations Center have received no reports of impact to the public drinking water supply, according to Welch.
In partnership with their emergency support function partners, the KDEM is coordinating with Wyandotte County Emergency Management to support needs as requested.
"The State of Kansas will continue working closely with local officials and emergency responders to help this community recover,” Kelly added.
Under the Kansas statutory framework, a state of disaster emergency proclamation remains in effect for 15 days.
As a result, the current statement of emergency order will remain valid through Sept. 4.
Local leaders have already deployed skilled trade workers to address damaged electrical meters and issued guidelines for separating vegetative debris from household waste to help residents safely expedite the restoration of electrical power.
“The state of disaster emergency proclamation provides direct state assistance through resource support and technical assistance to augment local response and recovery efforts,” Welch added.
Should state officials determine that relief efforts require an extension beyond that date, Kelly is required to submit a formal request to the Legislative Coordinating Council (LCC) for additional time.
With its legislative authority, the LCC can extend the declaration in increments of up to 30 days at a time.