UPDATE — Wednesday, September 30, 5:00 PM CT: The Weather Service's 4:59 PM update confirms the tornado is still on the ground — now 7 miles southeast of Milberger, 8 miles northwest of Hoisington, moving northeast at 30 mph. Spotters confirmed multiple tornadoes east of Galatia. Flying debris will be dangerous to anyone caught without shelter; mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. The warning for Barton County runs through 5:15 PM CDT. Take cover now.

Northwestern Barton County, KS — A tornado is on the ground in northwestern Barton County, Kansas, and a Tornado Warning remains in effect through 5:15 PM CDT.

What is happening:

Weather spotters confirmed the tornado at 4:49 PM CDT, near Olmitz — about 7 miles east of Otis — moving northeast at 30 mph. The National Weather Service in Wichita warns the tornadic thunderstorm will stay over mainly rural areas of northwestern Barton County, including Susank.

Local impacts:

The tornado is causing damaging winds on the ground right now. Flying debris poses a danger to anyone caught without shelter. Mobile homes can be damaged or destroyed, and damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles is expected. Tree damage is likely.

What to do:

- Take cover NOW. Go to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.

- Stay away from windows.

- If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

Source: National Weather Service, Wichita, Kansas. Issued September 30, 2026.