(RILEY COUNTY, KS – June 5, 2026) The National Weather Service has completed a damage assessment following Thursday evening’s storms in Riley County. Officials found that most of the tornado damage was consistent with an EF0 tornado, with estimated wind speeds of 90 mph.
The assessment also found one home on Union Road sustained damage consistent with an EF2 tornado, with estimated wind speeds between 110 and 120 mph.
No injuries have been reported.
Dispatch operators activated outdoor warning sirens in the City of Riley Thursday evening based on reports from residents of a tornado sighting, although the National Weather Service did not issue a tornado warning.
“We want to thank residents for calling to report the tornado sighting yesterday evening,” said Laurie Harrison, Riley County Emergency Management Coordinator. “There was no tornado watch or thunderstorm warning in effect, and the storm popped up very quickly.”
Although the outdoor warning sirens were activated in the City of Riley, several residents reported not hearing the warning.
Riley County Emergency Dispatch and Emergency Management personnel worked with the siren maintenance company to identify the issue. The problem was mechanical and repairs are expected to be completed next week.
Roadways that were closed Thursday night because of flooding have since reopened.
Officials continue to remind the public not to drive or walk through flooded roadways. Several people had to be rescued from stranded vehicles in the Manhattan area Thursday night.
Additional storms are possible across portions of northern Kansas this afternoon with the potential for damaging winds, flash flooding, and hail. Residents should stay weather aware and be prepared to respond to quickly changing conditions. If a roadway is flooded, turn around, don’t drown. Never drive or walk into floodwater.
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