Greenfield, Iowa was hit by a devastating tornado that resulted in the death of at least five individuals and left numerous others injured. The tornado caused widespread destruction, destroying homes, businesses, and uprooting trees in its path. This disaster occurred just weeks after tornadoes had already struck and caused significant damage in other parts of the state of Iowa. Additionally, severe storms in Nebraska brought torrential rain, high winds, and large hail, further adding to the chaos in the region.
The Iowa Department of Public Safety reported that four individuals lost their lives in Greenfield, with at least 35 others sustaining injuries from the tornado. The aftermath of the disaster prompted a response to transport 14 individuals to medical facilities outside the affected county. In neighboring Adams County, a female driver tragically lost her life when her vehicle was blown off the road by the tornado. The names of the deceased have not been released at this time.
Governor Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for 15 counties across the state impacted by severe weather, leading her to visit the hard-hit town of Greenfield to assess the extensive damage and initiate the recovery process. The governor described the situation as “tragic” and “gut-wrenching” during a news conference in Greenfield, highlighting the significant destruction that the town had endured. State Representative Ray Sorensen, who represents Greenfield, recounted a harrowing experience of rescuing a man from the rubble and facilitating his treatment at a makeshift hospital set up in a lumber yard.
The devastating tornado left a trail of destruction in Greenfield, flattening a significant portion of the town, including homes, buildings, and even the local hospital. Residents banded together in the aftermath to salvage belongings and support each other amidst the rubble. The Adair County Health System hospital in Greenfield sustained damage, while a nearby wind farm suffered a direct hit, resulting in the destruction of several power-producing towers.
As the recovery efforts continue, the region remains on high alert for the possibility of more severe weather. The National Weather Service had issued tornado warnings for southern Minnesota and the Chicago metropolitan area, forecasting strong thunderstorms and potential tornado activity. Amidst the ongoing challenges, communities continue to grapple with the aftermath of the natural disasters that have swept through the region, leaving a trail of devastation and loss in their wake.