The Missouri State Fair has reopened, after a severe thunderstorm passed through Sedalia last night, knocking out power and blowing debris across the fairgrounds.
The gates reopened to the public at 3:00 p.m., after electrical power was fully restored. Spokeswoman Tammy Nichols says there were no injuries to people or farm animals.
“We were very fortunate in that no one was injured," Nichols said. "We took preemptive measures in time to insure that folks were in a safe place, that animals were safe...we got campers evacuated from our campgrounds and they were safely inside the Lowell Mohler Assembly Hall. Once the storm went through, those campers returned to their campsites.”
Nichols also says the carnival area has undergone inspection and that the entire fairground is safe for visitors. Tonight’s concert featuring country music singers Luke Bryan and Josh Thompson will go on as scheduled.
The Missouri State Fair concludes on Sunday.