US: Tornadoes leave several injured, cause damages in Iowa July 19 /update 1

Event

A storm system tracking across Iowa spawned multiple tornadoes on Thursday, July 19, leaving several people injured and causing material damages in Pella, as well as further damages in nearby Marshalltown and in Bondurant, near Des Moines. The precise number of casualties from the tornadoes was not immediately reported. Local officials declared a state of emergency in Marshalltown, where thousands have been affected by power outages and residents have been advised to stay away from the downtown area; blackouts have also been reported in Bondurant. Lingering power outages and traffic disruptions are expected in affected areas over the coming hours.

Context

Peak tornado season in the US is generally between April and June. Typically, the most affected areas are the Great Plains, Midwest, and southeastern states.

Advice

Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to be aware of local weather forecasts, take appropriate precautions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. The safest place to be in a building in the event of a tornado is in the basement or on the ground floor, or in an interior hallway or stairwell. Avoid doors, windows, and walls. If a tornado is approaching, crouch face down as low as possible to the floor and cover your head with your hands, or a mattress if possible, to protect your head from falling debris.