A person was killed and at least 22 homes were destroyed by a tornado Tuesday afternoon in Westmoreland, Kan. northeast of Manhattan.
That includes the home of J.T. and Ashley VanGilder, former Cowley County residents. J.T. and the family’s 8-year-old son were home at the time. The two escaped their heavily damaged home by huddling together in a hallway.
Ashley, who spoke with Cowley Post early Wednesday, said the couple’s “house is gone.”
Ashley Heptig VanGilder once lived in Winfield with her family. J.T. VanGilder’s parents still live in Ark City and work for USD 470.
“I’m thankful my parents live near us, as well as two of my siblings,” Ashley said. “My dad’s family is from here (Westmoreland).”
The tornado occurred at 4:41 p.m. Manhattan-area media report that some roads are closed to traffic. Crews are on scene to assess damage and search for people.
Back here in Cowley County, heavy rain and high winds were reported. Some funnel clouds were also spotted and some tree limb damage was reported.
Photos: Top photo shows what is remaining of the VanGilder home in Westmoreland. Inset photo is a photo of the tornado taken by J.T. VanGilder.
