Severe Weather

Last year’s powerful derecho damaged or destroyed an estimated seven million trees across Iowa, according to a new analysis released by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The storm decimated Iowa’s forests, mangling some of the state’s oldest and most majestic trees.

A year ago this month, a freak storm comparable to a Category 4 hurricane carved a path of destruction across Iowa, damaging scores of homes. One year later, some residents are still discovering storm damage from the Aug. 10 derecho, are fighting for insurance payments and struggling to rebuild.

A year ago this month, a powerful derecho devastated communities across Iowa. Among the hardest hit were refugee families in Cedar Rapids, where many are still struggling to recover from the storm. Some say their lives have been forever changed.

Last year’s powerful derecho devastated generations-old forests in a matter of minutes, downing millions of trees across Iowa. One year later, only a small fraction of the trees have been replanted and some Iowans are still grieving the loss.

Ben Kieffer speaks with a variety of guests about the one-year anniversary of the derecho and how it has changed lives and impacted people long term.

One year after the devastating derecho, local leaders in Cedar Rapids say the city is making progress on its efforts to rebuild. Residents and officials are marking the anniversary to acknowledge the loss and the resilience of the community.

One year ago, a powerful derecho packing winds comparable to a Category 4 hurricane swept through Iowa, leaving a trail of devastation. A year later, some Iowans haven't fully recovered and many are still waiting for an insurance check, a contractor and a feeling of security.

The Iowa tornado outbreak didn't result in any fatalities or serious injuries. On this edition of River to River, a harrowing story from one Lake City resident who was in the twister's path.

Host Ben Kieffer and his guests have a number of quick conversations about the biggest news stories of the week, including a remembrances of one of Iowa's most prominent disability rights advocates.

Northwest and central Iowa adjust to an early drought this summer.