IOWA -- According to the National Weather Service an estimated 27 to 30 unexpected tornadoes swept through central Iowa Thursday, July 19, injuring at least 17 people, flattening buildings in three cities and forcing the evacuation of a hospital. Residents — and even weather forecasters — were taken by surprise as the tornadoes hit Marshalltown, Pella and Bondurant. Ten people were injured in Marshalltown and seven at a factory near Pella, but no deaths were reported. In Pella, at least seven were injured when a reported tornado struck the Vermeer Corporation, a company that makes industrial and agricultural equipment, causing major damage. All have since been treated and released. According to Vermeer CEO Jason Andringa, about 400 dealers and customers were on the site as part of a 70th anniversary event when the storms struck. At least 10 people were injured and several homes and businesses were severely damaged in Marshalltown. The National Weather Service warned of "catastrophic damage," reporting that tops of buildings were gone. In Bondurant, about 15 miles northeast of Des Moines, another reported tornado damaged homes and caused minor injuries. More severe weather is likely in the Midwest on Friday. … [Read more...]