TOPEKA — In the wake of a tornado that ripped apart Reading Saturday, Gov. Sam Brownback has issued a state disaster declaration covering 16 counties, including Lyon, Franklin, Osage, Miami, Anderson, Coffey, Douglas and Johnson counties. Franklin County Emergency Management director Alan Radcliffe says the storm that hit Franklin County damaged some houses and buildings in the western half of the county, trees and power line. That storm, spawned a funnel cloud on the south edge of Quenemo, and damaged structures and was watched by Pomona storm spotters, Radcliffe said. The funnel hung about 10 to 15 feet above the ground in southwestern Franklin County and then pulled up into the clouds south of Pomona, he said. Some houses and structures, several trees and power lines were damaged. At one point, Franklin County road crews had to clear roads of fallen trees and branches, Radcliffe said. A tornado spawned by the powerful storm system killed one man and severely damaged much of Reading just west of Melvern Lake Saturday night. Kansans wanting to volunteer to help reading are urged to call 211 for more information, Kansas emergency officials said. Those wanting to donate money can check the Web site at www.ksready.gov.
Tuesday, May 24, 8:30 a.m.
