Storms offer reminder to protect family, property

Thankfully, Topeka and Lawrence were spared the brunt of the massive tornado that thundered through northeastern Kansas at the end of May. But the destruction of the homes and property that were in the way should underscore the importance of emergency preparation — and of having your insurance updated.

Topeka has its own history with tornadoes. The 1966 twister caused hundreds of millions of dollars in damage, destroyed hundreds of homes, and killed 16. However, that twister was more than 50 years ago now, and memories fade. Even (and perhaps especially) traumatic ones.

In recent years, it has become easy to imagine that tornadoes are something that bedevil the central part of Kansas or neighboring states. The northeast of the state, we imagine, might be struck on occasion, but that’s surely a rare and remote possibility.

The May 28 tornado should prove that the possibility is real and present.

At EF-4 strength, the twister stayed on the ground for 31.82 miles, with top speeds reaching 170 mph. Dozens of homes were mangled, and more than a dozen residents went to the hospital. Imagine for a second if that storm, with that strength, had hit downtown Lawrence. Imagine, for a second if that storm, with that strength, had hit central Topeka. The capital city has seen that scenario only too well.

Both communities and counties were fortunate. Shawnee and Topeka residents should take this opportunity to make sure they’re ready for storms in the future. Do they know where they will taker shelter if needed? Do they have a storm kit — radio, flashlights, etc. — assembled? Do they have their insurance policies up-to-date and covering what needs to be covered if the storms come again?

The risk isn’t over for this season, either. Rain continues to fall, and flooding has been a constant possibility. As always, it pays to be alert. Not panicked, but alert.

Life in Kansas has many joys and possibilities. Our people and communities are second to none, our civic spirit and pride unmatched. The golden vistas of the Flint Hills can take your breath away.

Yet along with those joys, we must accept that severe weather can — and most likely, will — intrude each spring. Rain, severe thunderstorms and even tornadoes are all part of the fabric of life in this state.

Make the needed preparations to protect you and your family. And then let the clouds do what they will, as you enjoy all that Kansas has to offer.