Severe Storms Cause Power Outages and Damage Across Iowa and Illinois
Severe storms with high winds, heavy rainfall, and tornado warnings swept through parts of Iowa and Illinois on August 11, 2026, causing widespread power outages and significant damage. The storms, which included wind speeds of up to 80 mph and nearly 1,500 lightning strikes, led to downed trees, power lines, and structural damage in several areas, including Maquoketa, Iowa, and Cambridge, Illinois. Maquoketa declared a local community disaster period to address the extensive cleanup required. Power outages were reported across multiple counties, with over 21,000 customers affected in Will County, Illinois, and thousands more in other areas. The National Weather Service issued multiple severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings throughout the morning, with the most significant threats moving southeast into Illinois by mid-morning. The storms have since subsided, but recovery efforts are ongoing. 
