Topline
At least seven people, including two children, were killed in Iowa on Saturday after a powerful tornado tore through parts of the state on Saturday, according to authorities, prompting Governor Kim Reynolds to issue a disaster proclamation for the worst hit area, Madison County.
Key Facts
According to officials, six of the deaths—including two children younger than 5—occurred in Madison county while a seventh fatality was reported in nearby Lucas County.
Additional details about the deceased were not made public as the families of all the victims are yet to be notified.
In Madison county, which was severely hit by the storm, four adults were injured, three of whom were in serious condition according to the Madison County Emergency Management Agency (MCEMA), the Des Moines Register reported.
The MCEMA’s director Diogenes Ayala said that at least 25 to 30 homes had been destroyed by the tornado, but a complete assessment would only be possible on Sunday morning.
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said additional counties besides Madison may be added to the disaster proclamation if necessary.
Crucial Quote
In an official statement Reynolds said: “Our hearts go out to all those affected by the deadly storms that tore through our state today. Kevin and I join with Iowans in prayer for those that lost their lives and those injured. Our hearts ache during this time, but I know Iowans will step up and come together to help in this time of need—they already are.”
Big Number
10,559. That’s the total number of people who were left without power at one point on Saturday due to the storm, according to the Des Moines Register. As of 11 pm local time, more than 5,500 still remained without power.
Further Reading
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds issues disaster proclamation for Madison County after Winterset tornado killed 6 (Des Moines Register)
At Least 7 Killed as Powerful Storms Rampage Across Iowa, Officials Say (New York Times)
