Volunteer chainsaw crews tackle more than 560 cleanup requests following Salina windstorm
Seven disaster relief groups deploy across county to clear tree debris left by 113 mph winds
SALINA, Kan. — More than a week after severe storms with 113 mph wind gusts battered central Kansas, volunteer chainsaw crews are working to clear tree debris and assist residents in recovery.
Following the June 8 disaster, Saline County Emergency Management has fielded more than 560 requests for help cutting downed trees and moving heavy limbs to the curb. Volunteer organizations coordinating with county officials have completed more than 300 of those jobs, while another 200 are actively being worked or have been assigned to crews. Remaining requests are awaiting assignment and are being prioritized based on each home's immediate safety concerns and the specific capabilities of the working groups.
Seven volunteer organizations — Convoy of Hope, Team Rubicon, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, Emmanuel, Minuteman Disaster Response, Team Blackthorn and Mennonite Disaster Service — are currently deployed across the county.
Emergency management officials are reminding residents to answer their phones, as volunteers will call — often from out-of-state numbers — before accessing a property. Anyone still needing help, or groups looking to volunteer, can call the county hotline at 785-825-6511.
Officials are urging the public not to call for estimated arrival times unless there is an immediate emergency, noting that local volunteer groups will continue weekend cleanup efforts for any residents whom out-of-state crews are unable to reach before returning home.
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