Monday morning’s storm damage through Saline and Howard counties was the result of an EF-2 tornado, according to the National Weather Service’s regional office in Pleasant Hill.

Survey teams made their way through the two counties Tuesday, Apr. 28 to determine that a single tornado had touched down around 6:52 a.m. Monday.

The twister carved a path of destruction for 36.5 miles from west of Slater, through Gilliam and Glasgow before continuing on an easterly path through northern Howard County and roping out past the intersection of Route A and County Road 136, near Rudolf Bennitt Lake. The National Weather Service meteorologists were accompanied by Saline County Emergency Management Director Brad Hinz.

The weather service says the tornado had winds of 115 miles per hour at its strongest, and at its widest point was 350 yards. No injuries or fatalities were reported from the twister.

Cleanup continues in impacted communities, with power crews continuing to work along Route 240 east from Slater. The roadway remains closed Thursday morning, but Hinz says the road should reopen once crews finish installing new utility poles and lines. He credits the outpouring of volunteers and support in the aftermath of the tornado.

Hinz asks anyone looking to help with storm recovery should contact Slater City Hall prior to showing up, to learn how best to provide assistance.