AP/Hunter
08/11/20
A rare wind storm with power similar to an inland hurricane swept across the Midwest, blowing over trees, flipping vehicles, causing widespread property damage and leaving tens of thousands of homes without power. The storm known as a derecho lasted several hours as it tore across eastern Nebraska, Iowa and parts of Wisconsin and Illinois.
A scientist at the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center says the storm had the wind speed of a major hurricane, and likely caused more widespread damage than a normal tornado.
Extensive damage was reported in the listening area. And there are still thousands without power as the day began. Mid American Energy reports over 19,000 still without power in Iowa City, and 20 percent of the customers Alliant Energy serves across the state are waiting for crews to get to them.
Iowa City officials are asking people to use caution as they head out today, as there are several downed trees and limbs throughout the city. They remind residents that although they cannot assist with the removal of trees, branches or debris, you can bundle up smaller branches and wood waste for curbside pickup on your normal garbage day. You can also take debris to the Iowa City Landfill at no charge. They are open Monday through Saturday from 7am to 4:30pm.
The City of Coralville says they will also pick up bundled wood waste and brush at no charge, but it will take place over the next few weeks and may not occur during your regular garbage pickup day. Loose brush needs to be put in yard waste bags on regular collection days.
The City of Cedar Rapids is dealing with widespread damage, and has suspended transit service through Wednesday. Tuesday’s City Council meeting has also been cancelled. Crews will attempt to pick up garbage carts on residents’ regular day, but there could be delays. They’ll attempt to get all collection services back up to normal in the coming days.
If you see a downed power line or tree limb blocking the road or sidewalk, contact your power provider or street department in the city the damage is located.
The Des Moines metro area, which at one time yesterday had over 200,000 customers without power, are still dealing with nearly 92,000 without power, and the Quad Cities has over 102,000 waking up with no electricity.