Multiple lives were lost during a powerful tornado that ripped through Greenfield Tuesday afternoon.

Sgt. Alex Dinkla with the Iowa State Patrol made the announcement that the community of just over 2,000 residents took a direct hit, and that their office is investigating the impact on life the devastating storm had on the community.

“Sadly, we can confirm that there are fatalities with this tornado. Also, injuries have been sustained by residents in the Greenfield area. We are still working to assess and update the information as it becomes available.”

Local, county, and state emergency responders quickly initiated search and rescue operations once the tornado passed through the area, according to Dinkla. Adair County Memorial Hospital was directly hit by the storm, and is working to transport patients to other medical facilities.

Additionally, the Greenfield Community School District has coordinated the establishment of a reunification point at the local high school. This location will also serve as a temporary shelter for Greenfield residents in need.

A food and water drop off location has been set up at the Department of Transportation Facility located east of Greenfield at 2313 Highway 92.

Family members or friends unable to reach their loved ones that might have been impacted by the storm in Greenfield should call the Iowa Department of Public Safety Storm Lake Communication Center at 712.732.1341.

Governor Kim Reynolds released a statement, announcing plans to visit the community in the morning with local officials and state emergency responders: 

“Kevin’s and my prayers are with all the communities and families impacted by today’s severe weather, and especially those who tragically lost their lives in the Greenfield area. I am committed to providing the full resources of the state to support the response and recovery effort. 

“State and local officials are on the ground, assessing the situation and setting up temporary shelters for those whose homes were damaged or destroyed. First responders and health care providers are onsite caring for the injured. 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. While it’s too soon to know the storm’s full impact, answers will come in the hours and days ahead.

“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. Iowans are strong and resilient, and we will get through this together.”

Extensive damage has been reported throughout the Greenfield community to the National Weather Service, with several buildings completely flattened. Raccoon Valley Radio will bring you more information as it becomes official.