High winds topping 80 mph are measured in the Independence area bring damage to the area.

 

This morning around 9:35, high winds entered the Independence area with an 81 mph wind gust measured at the airport.  Damage was reported through town, downing trees and snapping power lines.  Part of the roof was also torn off the Hub Church on West Main.

 

The strong winds then shifted to the north towards Sycamore and Neodesha where some large limbs were reported down just southeast of Altoona.

 

Earlier in the morning, a tornado warning was also issued for Washington and Nowata Counties.  Some rotation was observed in the Bartlesville area, but no tornados were confirmed by spotters.

 

Photo: Kyle Johnson