Eastern Colorado was hit by a series of tornadoes Sunday afternoon, leaving a trail of destruction across multiple counties. Tornado activity was reported in at least three counties, including Adams, Elbert, and Arapahoe, although significant property damage appears to have been limited to Adams and Elbert Counties. Fortunately, despite the widespread damage, no injuries have been reported as of Sunday evening.
The National Weather Service began issuing tornado warnings around 2 p.m. for parts of the Denver metro area and the Eastern Plains. Radar confirmed the likelihood of tornadoes in several regions, prompting emergency alerts in Arapahoe and Adams counties. Although those warnings were later downgraded to a tornado watch for northeastern Colorado until 8 p.m., a specific warning for northeastern Adams and southwestern Morgan counties remained in effect until 2:45 p.m.
Emergency services and local officials began responding immediately, monitoring the situation, and assessing the extent of the damage. Authorities confirmed that tornadoes had touched down multiple times, particularly near the town of Bennett in Adams County.
Adams and Elbert Counties Report Major Property Damage
Adams County saw some of the most severe impacts. Initial assessments by the Adams County Sheriff’s Office revealed that at least 17 homes and structures were either damaged or completely destroyed. Areas near N Harback Rd & E 38th Ave and E 64th & Hwy 79 were among the hardest hit. Power outages were widespread, and as of Sunday night, electricity had not yet been restored in many areas. CORE Electric Cooperative reported approximately 90 customers without power in the Bennett area and stated that crews were working to replace at least 30 broken power poles and numerous downed wires. This event highlights the severe nature of weather Eastern Colorado.
In neighboring Elbert County, officials confirmed that at least 19 homes were damaged or destroyed near the town of Elizabeth. Emergency responders, including firefighters from the Elizabeth Fire Protection District, were dispatched to assist residents and begin damage assessments. Power outages were also reported in the region, compounding the difficulties faced by those affected.
Although Arapahoe County was also placed under a tornado warning, officials later confirmed that the county had not sustained significant damage.
Emergency Services Mobilize and Recovery Efforts Begin
In the wake of the severe weather, local authorities have activated emergency management resources to support affected communities. In Adams County, sheriff’s deputies and emergency response teams were deployed to assess the damage and ensure resident safety. Officials are encouraging anyone in need of assistance to visit the Bennett Recreation Center, located at 455 S. 1st Street in Bennett, which has been designated as a support hub.
Despite the frightening conditions and considerable property damage, the absence of reported injuries has been a welcome relief to residents and responders. As assessments continue and recovery begins, the focus remains on restoring power, clearing debris, and providing aid to those whose homes were impacted. This event underscores the unpredictable nature of severe weather in Eastern Colorado’s plains and the importance of rapid response and community resilience.
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