More COVID-19 deaths have been reported in Iowa as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases topped 50,000 in the state. The state's online virus tracker shows seven deaths reported this morning from the day before, bringing the state's total to 954. The site also showed a jump of more than 600 confirmed cases this morning from the day before, bringing the state's total to nearly 50,200.
Woodbury county has 16 new cases of the coronavirus today, with a total 3,760 cases and 52 deaths.
Dakota county Nebraska has two new cases of the coronavirus today
News of the increases comes as much of Iowa deals with the aftermath of a rare wind storm on Monday that has left thousands of residents without power days later. The state's website says hospital space could be affected in the wake of the storm, as long-term care residents could be transferred to hospitals due to damage facilities.
This week’s report from the U.S Drought Monitor shows little difference from last week when a portion of eleven Iowa counties entered extreme drought for the first time.
The driest conditions are in west central Iowa.
The latest report (Thursday) shows nearly 80% of the state is abnormally dry, while 34% is in moderate drought. More than 15% of the state is in severe drought.
*** The eleven counties in extreme drought are Boone, Adair, Dallas, Cass, Shelby, Sac, Calhoun, Audubon, Crawford, Carroll and Guthrie.
A signature annual fundraiser for the Polk County Democratic Party in Iowa will see a major change next month in the wake of a global coronavirus pandemic. For the first time since it began in 1972, the Steak Fry event will be held as a drive-in. The Steak Fry will be held at the Airplane Field at Des Moines Water Works Park. Attendees will be able to watch the program on a large screen and listen in through the radio.
