Tornadoes tear through Wisconsin, Iowa
Severe storms caused significant property damage throughout much of the Midwest earlier this week, causing a number of residents to tap into their homeowners insurance policies.
Officials from the National Weather Service said at least 10 tornadoes touched down in Wisconsin Sunday, setting a record for the biggest single-day tornado outbreak in state history. Winds at speeds of up to 115 miles an hour tore through the state, leaving a significant amount of damage in their wake. It was also the first time in 17 years the state has seen any kind of strong tornado, said experts.
Meanwhile, Iowa homeowners endured fierce storms that knocked down 100 homes in the town of Mapleton, tore off the roof of a school building, leveled a grain elevator and knocked down power lines across the city. Remarkably, no one was seriously hurt, according to reports.
The spring can be a busy season for tornadoes, according to the Insurance Information Institute, which suggests consumers review their homeowners insurance policies as well as coverage for their automobiles and businesses. Homeowners insurance policies generally cover damage to the property as well as the costs of living away from home if a primary residence is destroyed or damaged.
Related Home Insurance Articles:
- Homes destroyed by Nevada wildfire May 23, 2012
- Researchers hope to better understand tornado damage May 22, 2012
- Total costs from Minneapolis tornado reach $80 million May 21, 2012
- Analysis shows more than $2B of insurance claims from Joplin tornado May 18, 2012
- Recovery continues for Michigan tornado victims May 17, 2012
