MIAMI COUNTY, Kan. (KCTV) – Miami County is under a State of Emergency after back-to-back storms left a trail of damage.
The Miami County Sheriff’s Office declared the emergency on Wednesday, April 15, following back-to-back severe weather events: tornadoes on Monday and a widespread hailstorm on Wednesday.
County leaders noted that the declaration unlocks access to additional state and local resources to support cleanup and repair efforts across the county.
Hail shatters the back window of an SUV in Osawatomie on April 15, 2026.(Courtesy: Chrissy Rayl)What’s Happening Now
Hail struck Osawatomie and Paola on Wednesday, leaving widespread damage across both communities. The extent of that damage is still being assessed.
In Hillsdale and Ottawa, residents are in the early stages of tornado recovery after twisters touched down Monday.
A separate State of Emergency was previously declared following that storm.
Utility crews and volunteers worked side by side Wednesday to help residents recover from Monday night’s EF-2 tornado that carved a three-mile path through the small community.(KCTV5)What Officials Are Saying
The Miami County Sheriff’s Office said it is working closely with the City of Osawatomie, the City of Paola and Miami County leadership to coordinate response efforts.
Officials have pledged to provide timely updates as the situation develops.
Egg-sized hail pelts Paola on April 15, 2026.(Courtesy: Kaitlynn Wilkins)What This Means for Residents
The Sheriff’s Office noted that the declaration mirrors the one issued after Monday’s tornado. It is designated to fast-track access to resources for repairs and cleanup.
Residents in affected areas are encouraged to monitor official channels from the Miami County Sheriff’s Office for the latest guidance.
Copyright 2026 KCTV. All rights reserved.