The most significant and widely remembered derecho in Iowa occurred on August 10, 2020. This powerful and destructive storm swept across the state, leaving an unprecedented path of damage and disruption. For many Iowans, "the derecho" refers specifically to this historic event due to its scale and lasting impact.
Understanding the Historic August 2020 Derecho
The derecho of August 10, 2020, was a severe, long-lived, and fast-moving windstorm that originated in southeastern South Dakota and quickly intensified as it moved eastward across Nebraska and into Iowa. It traversed the entire state of Iowa in a matter of hours, impacting communities from west to east.
This particular derecho was notable for its extreme wind speeds, which reached hurricane-force or higher in many areas. Sustained winds of 70-100 mph were common, with gusts exceeding 110-120 mph reported in some locations, particularly around Cedar Rapids.
The storm’s immense power and broad path caused catastrophic damage. Millions of acres of corn and soybean fields, nearing harvest, were flattened. Homes, businesses, and infrastructure suffered extensive damage, with countless trees uprooted or snapped.
What is a Derecho?
A derecho is a widespread, long-lived, straight-line wind storm associated with a fast-moving group of severe thunderstorms. The term "derecho" comes from the Spanish word for "direct" or "straight," contrasting with the rotating winds of a tornado.
For a storm to be classified as a derecho, it must meet specific criteria. These include a wind damage path extending more than 250 miles (400 kilometers), wind gusts of at least 58 mph (93 km/h) along most of its length, and several reports of 75 mph (121 km/h) or higher wind gusts.
Derechos are relatively rare but can be as destructive as tornadoes, often over a much larger area. They are most common in the central and eastern United States during late spring and summer.
Iowa’s Vulnerability and Agricultural Impact
Iowa’s geography, characterized by its flat to gently rolling plains, makes it susceptible to severe weather systems like derechos. There are few natural barriers to impede the progress of powerful windstorms once they develop.
The August 2020 derecho struck at a critical time for Iowa’s agricultural industry. Corn and soybean crops were well-developed and just weeks away from harvest. The high winds flattened an estimated 14 million acres of crops, causing billions of dollars in agricultural losses.
This event highlighted the vulnerability of Iowa’s primary economic sector to extreme weather. The damage to grain bins and storage facilities further complicated the recovery for farmers across the state.
Widespread Damage and Slow Recovery
Beyond agriculture, the derecho caused extensive damage to urban and rural areas. Hundreds of thousands of Iowans lost power, with some communities experiencing outages for weeks due to the sheer volume of downed power lines and poles.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa’s second-largest city, was particularly hard-hit, with nearly every home and business experiencing some level of damage. The city became a focal point for recovery efforts, which involved local, state, and federal agencies.
The recovery process was slow and challenging, compounded by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Debris removal alone took months, and many residents faced lengthy waits for repairs due to the overwhelming demand for contractors and building materials.
Preparing for Severe Weather in Iowa
While a derecho of the 2020 magnitude is rare, severe thunderstorms and high winds are common in Iowa. Being prepared is crucial for all residents.
Before a Storm:
- Create an Emergency Kit: Include water, non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications.
- Develop a Family Emergency Plan: Identify a safe place in your home (e.g., basement or interior room on the lowest floor) and an out-of-state contact.
- Stay Informed: Monitor local weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts from your county or the National Weather Service.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or tie down anything that could blow away, such as patio furniture, trash cans, and grills.
During a Storm:
- Seek Shelter Immediately: Move to your designated safe place.
- Stay Away from Windows: Flying debris is a major hazard during high winds.
- If Driving: Pull over to a safe location, away from trees and power lines, and stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened.
After a Storm:
- Assess Damage Safely: Watch for downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. Do not touch downed lines.
- Report Outages: Contact your utility provider to report power outages.
- Document Damage: Take photos and videos of any property damage for insurance claims.
- Be Wary of Scams: After major disasters, be cautious of unsolicited repair offers. Work with reputable, licensed contractors.
Safety Notes and Legal Considerations
Power Line Safety: Always assume a downed power line is live. Stay at least 30 feet away and report it to your utility company or 911.
Generator Safety: If using a portable generator, operate it outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from windows and doors, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Insurance Claims: Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after a storm. Understand your policy’s deductibles and coverage for wind damage, fallen trees, and additional living expenses if your home is uninhabitable. Keep detailed records of all communications and expenses.
Debris Removal: Check with your local city or county for specific guidelines on debris removal and disposal. Some areas may offer special collection services after a major storm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the highest wind speed recorded during the 2020 Iowa derecho?
A: While official weather stations recorded gusts over 100 mph, some unofficial reports and damage assessments suggested localized wind speeds potentially exceeded 120 mph, particularly in areas like Cedar Rapids.
Q: How long did the 2020 derecho last in Iowa?
A: The derecho moved across Iowa relatively quickly, impacting individual locations for typically 30 minutes to an hour. However, its entire path across the state lasted several hours on August 10, 2020.
Q: Has Iowa experienced other derechos?
A: Yes, Iowa has experienced other derechos, but none have matched the widespread destruction and intensity of the August 10, 2020 event. That storm is often referred to as "the derecho" due to its unprecedented impact.
Q: How much damage did the 2020 derecho cause?
A: The 2020 derecho caused billions of dollars in damage, with agricultural losses alone estimated at over $11 billion. Total economic impact, including property damage, infrastructure, and business disruption, was significantly higher.
Conclusion
The derecho in Iowa that remains etched in the collective memory occurred on August 10, 2020. This powerful and destructive straight-line windstorm caused unprecedented damage across the state, particularly to agricultural lands and urban infrastructure. While Iowa is no stranger to severe weather, the 2020 derecho stands as a stark reminder of nature’s power and the importance of preparedness for all Iowans.
