Severe weather swept through Topeka, Kansas, late Monday night, leaving residents to assess damage and clean up debris after powerful winds moved through the area. Courtney Sterbenz said the storm began with tornado sirens sounding just after midnight, followed by intense pressure in her home and a loud roaring sound that she compared to a train. She said she had lived in the community her entire life and had never experienced anything like it.
Sterbenz said the storm caused major damage around her home. When she went upstairs to look out her daughter’s bedroom window, she saw a tree in an unusual position near the house. After the rain eased, the full extent of the damage became clear. Other residents in the neighborhood reported similar destruction, including large trees ripped apart or blown over.
Marvin Rues, another Topeka resident, said he did not realize the severity of the storm while it was happening, but the damage was obvious by Tuesday. Looking at the fallen tree limbs and property damage, he estimated winds may have reached around 90 miles per hour.
Despite the destruction, neighbors quickly stepped in to help one another. Residents said the response showed the strength of the community as people worked together in the aftermath, offering support and assistance where needed. Hunter Balsmeier said the storm brought people together and reminded neighbors to put aside differences and make sure everyone was safe and had what they needed.
Local and county crews have begun debris pickup in the affected areas as cleanup efforts continue. City of Topeka and Shawnee County services are available to help residents deal with storm debris and recovery needs after the severe weather event. The storm serves as another reminder of how quickly dangerous weather can develop overnight and the importance of responding to emergency alerts when they are issued.
