Iowa’s death toll from Saturday’s tornado has gone up to seven after the tornado hit an estimated 25-30 homes.
The most recent death was reported in Lucas County. The previous recorded deaths were in Madison County, KCCI reported. At least two of the seven reported deaths were children, according to Madison County Emergency Management Director Diogenes Ayala, who called the tornado “the worst that anyone’s seen in quite a long time.”
“Our hearts go out to all those affected by the deadly storms that tore through our state today,” said Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds. “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.”
IOWA GOV. KIM REYNOLDS SIGNS BILL BANNING BIOLOGICAL MALES FROM WOMEN’S SPORTS
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.
— Gov. Kim Reynolds (@IAGovernor) March 6, 2022
Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Madison County on Saturday in response to the severe weather, allowing state resources to be utilized in the county to assist with response and recovery efforts. The governor’s office stated that additional counties may be added in the future to the proclamation.
A total of 5,671 Iowa residents were left without power late Saturday evening, according to MidAmerican Energy. The number was down from the 10,318 without power earlier in the evening, the Des Moines Register reported.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
Des Moines International Airport stopped all air traffic in response to Saturday’s tornado and evacuated everyone to tornado shelters beneath the airport. Accuweather called the storm an “extremely dangerous” situation and warned that associated storms could rain hail the size of ping pong balls.
