1000 still without power after powerful spring storm system rips through the area

MASON CITY — A powerful spring storm system raking the Midwest left thousands without power in north-central Iowa and damaged some homes and businesses.

Nearly 19,000 Alliant Energy customers were without power by midday Thursday in the area, including the communities in and around Britt, Garner, Forest City, Mason City and Northwood. Over 1000 customers are still without power this morning according to Alliant’s website, with the areas of Kensett, Joice, Leland and Thompson showing all but a few customers are without service.

Heavy rain, hail and high winds gusting to 60 mph pummeled the area Wednesday night into Thursday.

Interstate 35 northbound near Latimer and Hanlontown was closed for a time Thursday morning after winds blew semitrailers over. The canopy of the Casey’s General Store in Lake Mills was blown over by the strong winds.

 

(The Associated Press contributed to this report)