07/16/23: Straight-line Winds and Massive Chunks of Hail Demolish Great Bend

by Rhoden RoofingJul 17, 2023

The people living in Great Bend, Kansas, and the surrounding areas faced harsh weather conditions that were favorable for producing massive hail, destructive winds, and causing significant damage to homes and businesses. Here’s the overview of what occurred:

What: Hail, 2-3 inches in diameter
When: July 16, 2023
Where: Great Bend, Kansas

Severe storm with straight-line wind causes damage in Great Bend

Image via https://www.ksn.com/weather/weather-stories/storm-reports-most-of-kansas-under-severe-thunderstorm-watch/

A tremendously powerful storm wreaked havoc on residences and businesses as it gradually swept through the region. The tempest posed serious threats, with wind gusts reaching up to 65 mph and hail ranging from quarter-size to softball-size. Trees were split in two, power lines were blown down, and debris was dispersed throughout the town. Homes and businesses suffered great damage as the storm continued.

What Does This Mean For Your Home?

As this storm began, the size of the hail was minimal. But as the evening progressed, the size of the ice increased substantially. Homes facing minor hail storms, with ice chunks measuring nearly 1″ in diameter, may encounter issues that necessitate prompt repairs. Delaying the repairs could worsen the situation, especially when confronted with a more substantial storm. The damages to watch out for include:

Shingle dents
Underlayment bruising
Gutter dents
Broken gutters
Cracked siding
Window holes
Torn screen doors

Hail of larger dimensions, comparable to tennis balls and softballs, as witnessed by Great Bend and nearby communities, can inflict significantly more extensive damage. Some of the potential consequences include, but are not restricted to:

Detached gutters from the home
Extensive dents and tears in the siding
Severe damage to windows and screens
Harm to metal fixtures

Image via https://www.ksn.com/weather/weather-stories/storm-reports-most-of-kansas-under-severe-thunderstorm-watch/

Find Help With Rhoden Roofing

Clean-up in Great Bend will take the help of the community as neighbors work together to split fallen trees, remove brush, tarp roofs, and sweep sidewalks. In the face of this devastating storm, many buildings are in dire need of attention and repair. You can rely on the expertise of Rhoden Roofing in Great Bend to assist with roof replacement, roof repair, and maintenance. We understand the immense impact such storms can have on homes and businesses, and our team is fully prepared to bring back the quality of your residence to its former splendor. If your property has suffered from the effects of this massive storm, don’t hesitate. Reach out to us today, and together, we can devise a comprehensive plan to restore your home.

This article is part of our News Series. See more details on events in our region: