Downey, IA – A tornado that touched down in eastern Iowa earlier this week has now been officially confirmed, with federal forecasters detailing its path and strength following a storm survey completed Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Quad Cities office, the tornado occurred Thursday, April 2, between 4:36 p.m. and 4:39 p.m. near Downey, impacting areas in both Johnson and Muscatine counties.
Survey teams classified the tornado as an EF0, with estimated peak winds reaching 80 mph. The tornado tracked approximately 2.2 miles and reached a maximum width of about 50 yards.
According to the NWS, the storm caused minor structural and agricultural damage along its path. A corn crib was lofted, trees were snapped, and farm equipment was bent. Part of a roof on an outbuilding was also damaged. No injuries or fatalities were reported.
The tornado’s path placed it just southwest of Downey, a small community located between Iowa City and Muscatine, within the broader eastern Iowa region.
Officials noted that additional storm damage assessments may continue in surrounding areas, and further updates could be released as information becomes available.
This confirmation comes after a week of active spring weather across Iowa and Illinois, with multiple severe thunderstorm warnings issued across the Quad Cities region.
Residents are encouraged to review severe weather safety plans as the spring storm season continues.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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