By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
One of the most violent storms in Kansas this summer, that did not produce a tornado, ripped through Great Bend on July 16. The effects of the storm can still be seen today with broken branches and boarded-up windows throughout town.
One of the more impactful images displaying the storm’s damage, were the
sights from the First Southern Baptist Church at the corner of 19th
Street and Harrison Street. Pastor Tim Singleton said the winds ripped a section
of the roof off and the following rain and hail caused more damage inside.
"I was shocked like everybody else," said Singleton. "I really was trying to think about our people. We have a lady who is part of our church that lives two doors over on 19th Street. I was concerned about her and the people in our community."
Crews have worked to at least get a tarp over the roof and prevent additional
damage and mold. Singleton said like everyone else, church staff is dealing
with insurance claims and getting supplies ordered. In the meantime, First
Southern Baptist is making use of their south building to conduct their
Sunday services.
"It's not like we live here," said Singleton. "It seems that way sometimes, but I don't have to go to sleep at night here. I don't have to eat all my meals here. There are people that have been really displaced. This is a challenge and we have to figure some things out, but there are a lot more families that have more to deal with than we do."
Singleton said several churches in the area have offered space and any help
needed.
Straight line winds reached more than 80 miles per hour in the July 16 storm and produced wind-driven hail up to softball size.
