Greenfield, Iowa – Search and rescue operations are underway in the aftermath of a destructive tornado that struck the Iowa community on Tuesday. The small city of Greenfield, located about 50 miles southwest of Des Moines, has experienced multiple fatalities and injuries following the at least EF3 tornado that tore through the area. Iowa State Patrol spokesperson Sgt. Alex Dinkla confirmed the devastating impact of the tornado, and Governor Kim Reynolds noted the challenges in providing details on the casualties due to the ongoing search and rescue efforts.
Over 100 first responders are diligently searching through the wreckage of Greenfield, where the hospital sustained damage, leading to the relocation of patients to nearby facilities. A makeshift hospital was swiftly established in the city’s lumberyard to attend to the injured in the immediate aftermath. The widespread destruction captured in videos from the area shows homes and structures obliterated, with debris scattered across the community.
The damage extends far beyond Greenfield, as reports indicate a total of 18 tornadoes striking Iowa on Tuesday alone, contributing to significant power outages and structural damage across multiple states. The surge in tornado activity in recent weeks has marked this year as one of the most active for tornadoes on record, with over 800 tornadoes reported thus far. The aftermath of the storms has left over 50,000 homes and businesses without power in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
Following the devastation in Greenfield and surrounding areas, a severe thunderstorm threat looms over a vast region stretching from Texas to western Vermont. The potential for damaging winds, hail, and even tornadoes continues to pose threats to communities in these areas. Additionally, cities like Nashville, Memphis, St. Louis, Cleveland, Tulsa, and Columbus are urged to remain vigilant as the storm system progresses.
Governor Kim Reynolds declared a disaster emergency proclamation for 15 Iowa counties in response to the severe thunderstorms, with western Iowa facing the brunt of the catastrophic impact. Greenfield witnessed significant fatalities and damage, with neighboring areas also experiencing destruction from the storms. While the recovery and damage assessments are ongoing, the resilience of the community is evident as residents come together to support each other during this crisis.
Residents like Valerie Warrior in Greenfield remain hopeful amidst the devastation, expressing confidence in the community’s ability to rebuild and recover. Despite the challenges faced, the unity and support shown among neighbors highlight the strength and determination of the people impacted by the tornado. The road to recovery may be long, but with solidarity and determination, Greenfield and its surrounding areas will persevere and rebuild.