(Greenfield) At Greenfield’s Day of Remembrance on Wednesday, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds delivered a keynote speech in which she expressed admiration for the remarkable progress the community has made since the devastating tornado. The storm struck the Adair County city of 2,000 residents on May 21, 2024. Jeremy Cooper, Emergency Management Coordinator for Adair and Guthrie counties, reflected on the impact of that day.
Cooper reported that the EF4 tornado damaged or destroyed 145 homes and 25 businesses. In the months following the storm, an additional 42 homes were deemed beyond repair and had to be demolished, bringing the total number of affected homes and businesses to approximately 180. Today, all but one of the 25 impacted businesses have resumed operations. Meanwhile, Greenfield’s landscape is transforming, with construction underway on roughly 120 to 130 new homes—many of which are already complete, though plenty of lots remain available.
Cooper says the Greenfield community is strong and resilient. He noted that within the first month after the storm, reconstruction had already begun with groundbreaking efforts underway. He documented more than half a million volunteer hours, with people showing up in force—using their hands, feet, and wheelbarrows—to help clear away the debris.
Wednesday’s commemoration began with a morning breakfast, followed by recovery services held throughout the day. A community lunch was served at noon, a prayer service was held in the afternoon, and an evening supper preceded a 6:30 p.m. program honoring and thanking the countless individuals, groups, and organizations who contributed to the city’s recovery.
