The first step has been taken for state and federal disaster assistance should local officials find it necessary, according to Cowley County Emergency Manager Brian Stone.
Based on a request from the city of Winfield, county commissioners Wednesday requested a local disaster declaration for Cowley County based on the damage from Tuesday night’s storms.
“It was more precautionary to let (state officials) know we don’t need their help but that we’re operating out of our normal mode of operation,” Stone said. “I e-mailed the request to the state. They basically realize we’re in an emergency situation.”
Winds recorded as high as 112 miles an hour hit Cowley County with a vengeance causing major structural damage to several homes and businesses and the Winfield Aquatic Center. Island Park in Winfield was also closed to the public. Huge trees were torn from the ground and other limbs and debris blocked streets for a time. Electrical power was out in a large area of Winfield and Dexter and Burden.
It’s possible the county could be included in another declaration that was sent by other government entities. Hail damage from a storm several days before the wind storm and even flood damage could be included although Stone said it is too early to estimate what type of assistance might be available.
“We’ve not requested any assistance at this time,” he said. “We’re just letting them know where we’re at.”
Stone estimated the electric meters were pulled from 250 homes by falling power lines or tree limbs. “It’s very minor damage that could be counted. It does create issues for the home owner,” he said.
“A significant number of homes did receive minor damage.”
There is no estimate yet on how many trees were damaged or destroyed. The city is still compiling the information, according to Stone.