Severe Storms Cause Damage Across the Midwest and Plains

Thu Apr 16 2026 11:21:24 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Communities in the Midwest and Plains brace for another round of severe storms, including tornadoes and damaging hail, following a day of destruction and injuries.

In the wake of severe storms that resulted in structural damage in several Kansas communities and minor injuries to multiple individuals, forecasters have issued warnings for further storms bringing tornadoes and giant hail. Damage assessments are underway, particularly in areas like Ottawa and Miami County. The National Weather Service is investigating possible tornado sightings as residents prepare for additional severe weather.

OTTAWA, Kan. (AP) — Following destructive storms that swept across the Plains and Midwest, forecasters have warned that additional severe weather could occur on Tuesday afternoon and evening. The impending storms may bring giant hail, tornadoes, and powerful wind gusts.

In Kansas, reports of minor injuries surfaced after Monday's storms. Officials in rural Franklin County noted that three individuals sustained minor injuries about 50 miles southwest of Kansas City. In Ottawa, where about 13,000 residents live, officials indicated structural damage but reported no fatalities or critical injuries. Significant damage emerged, particularly to power lines, trees, and numerous businesses.

A team from the National Weather Service (NWS) arrived in the Ottawa area on Tuesday to perform assessments and determine if a tornado had moved through the region, according to meteorologist Chelsea Picha from Topeka's NWS office.

In nearby Miami County, two minor injury cases were reported, alongside the destruction of several homes, overturned recreational vehicles, and campers. Power lines were shut down until cleanup could proceed safely according to the local sheriff's office.

Across southern Minnesota, three tornadoes were confirmed to have touched down, causing damage to farms and vehicles, as meteorologist Jake Beitlich noted reports of baseball-sized hail.

In Wisconsin, a tornado touched down near Gilman, although the damage was reported as minor. Damage to a manufactured home's roof was observed in Steuben with no injuries reported. Schools in the Madison area closed due to power outages affecting over 25,000 customers statewide.

Forecasters predict potential river flooding in the Upper Great Lakes as heavy rain is expected to continue through the week. Additionally, in Michigan, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency due to rising water levels at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex amid record snowfall and recent rainfall.