Spencer, IA (northwestiowanow.com) — A powerful severe thunderstorm swept through Northwest Iowa on Wednesday, causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and trees across multiple counties.

Storm spotters have confirmed numerous reports of structural and tree damage. In Lyon County’s Rock Rapids and Osceola County’s Sibley, high winds tore roofs off buildings. Additional building damage has been reported in Little Rock, while trees were reported down near Fostoria in Clay County and in the Emmetsburg area.

Meteorologist and Observing Program Leader Jeff Chapman with the National Weather Services in Sioux Falls gives us an update regarding the winds:

Spencer Media Group provided live coverage of the storm from 1:33 p.m. to 4:54 p.m., during which a total of 15 severe weather watches and warnings were issued.

Stay tuned for further updates as assessments continue across the region.