City workers rushed to clear extensive debris from Oakdale Park late Monday night after a severe storm battered Salina, threatening preparations for an upcoming local event.
The cleanup effort began just two days before the scheduled kickoff of the 50th Annual Smoky Hill River Festival on Thursday night.
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Storm Damage and Recovery
According to KSAL News, the National Weather Service recorded wind speeds reaching 113 MPH approximately three miles southwest of Salina during the tempest.
The powerful winds knocked down numerous tree limbs throughout the park grounds.
Additionally, the storm snapped at least one utility pole and flattened several event tents that organizers had already erected for the festivities.
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Salina Arts & Humanities Executive Director Brad Anderson stated that recovery operations are moving forward rapidly to ensure the venue is prepared for visitors.
"We are planning on having everything ready to kick off the 50th Smoky Hill River Festival on time this Thursday.
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There was significant damage to trees, tents, and power supply to the park. Everyone is working hard to be fully operational as soon as we can," said Anderson.
