The Cornstock Music Festival in Garnett was cancelled Saturday due to weather concerns. That decision was made with public safety in mind. National Weather Service forecasters, concert organizers, and Anderson County Emergency Management conversed several times during the day of the concert to attempt to get a grasp on the potential hazards and timing of thunderstorms.
Cornstock organizers and managers of the acts performing were prepared to alter gate opening times, and the time performers took the stage, in an effort to put on yet another amazing night of music. However, after utilizing forecasts and monitoring weather radar and talking with the National Weather Service, Anderson County Emergency Management Director JD Mersman recommended to concert organizers that the concert be cancelled or postponed.
Mersman says he regrets that thousands of fans didn’t get to enjoy one of the most amazing venues in the area, however, he emphasized he does not regret keeping the best interests of the safety of the volunteers, performers, attendees, and others.
Most of the response so far on social media has been positive, frustrating and disappointing but supportive. One individual cited a music festival in Germany a couple years ago that had over 70 people injured by lightning strikes when the concert went on during severe thunderstorms.
Mersman says he welcomes people to call him and discuss the decision with him and offer any suggestions for future events.
