Iowa officials surveying tornado damage; multiple deaths reported

(The Center Square) - A tornado touched down in Greenfield, Iowa, on Tuesday resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries, according to the Iowa State Patrol.

Gov. Kim Reynolds is expected to visit the small town on Wednesday, located just over an hour west of Des Moines.

The town's hospital sustained damage, according to ISP.

"Due to the hospital damage, patients needing further treatment for injuries were transferred to nearby medical centers," IPS said in a statement. "Additionally, the Greenfield Community School District coordinated the establishment of a reunification point at the local high school."

The high school also served as a temporary shelter for those affected by the storms. IPS said more information is expected later Wednesday.

The National Weather Service in Des Moines said three teams are assessing the damage and urged the public to be patient.

"If you do encounter a team (or any first responders or recovery and cleanup efforts), please give them space and let the teams work," the NWS said in a Facebook post .

Other areas of the state experienced straight-line winds and heavy thunderstorms.

Reynolds issued emergency proclamations for 15 counties affected by the storms.

"Utility crews are working to restore service to thousands without power, and the State Emergency Operations Center continues to coordinate missions to support local responders," Reynolds said in a statement Tuesday night. "While it’s too soon to know the storm’s full impact, answers will come in the hours and days ahead."

Another line of tornadoes hit Iowa on April 26. At least 19 tornadoes touched down then, according to the NWS.

“It was just a few weeks ago that tornadoes hit several other Iowa communities, and it’s hard to believe that it’s happened again," Reynolds said. "Iowans are strong and resilient, and we will get through this together."