A train bridge spanning the Big Sioux River in North Sioux City, near Iowa, collapsed, causing significant regional disruption and concern. The bridge, connecting Riverside and North Sioux City, broke around 11 pm following relentless flooding in the area.
Local media reported that authorities from the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office had proactively blocked roadways and bridges before the collapse, preventing any immediate casualties or accidents. Officials described the scene as dramatic, with the bridge “caved in the center and currently in the river,” according to The Mirror.
Storms have severely battered the Midwestern region, with infrastructure damage described as ‘staggering’. Governor Kim Reynolds declared a disaster for 20 counties in the north, including Sioux County.
🚨BREAKING: Train Bridge collapses into a river near Sioux City, Iowa.
This was due to severe flooding.
This has caused obvious disruption. Mark my words they will blame this on climate change. pic.twitter.com/gxfSGudEWy
— Sally (@TalkWithSally) June 24, 2024
Eric Tigges from Clay County emergency management reported that 13 rivers in the area are flooded. “When the flood gauge is underwater, it’s really high.” National Guard troops are assisting with water rescues and transporting needed medications lost in the flooding. Crews are working around the clock to evaluate the damage and determine the long-term effects on rail services.
The collapse has disrupted local transit and critical railroad services, as the bridge was frequently used to transport grain and crushed rock between North Sioux City and Sioux Falls.
Flood warnings and active flooding alerts are in effect for rivers in parts of the state, as well as in Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Floodwaters have forced people out of their homes in parts of the state following heavy rain.
National Weather Service meteorologist Donna Dubberke said parts of northern Nebraska, southeastern South Dakota, southern Minnesota, and northwest Iowa received eight times the typical average rainfall, with more heavy rain expected this week.
In South Dakota, Gov. Kristi Noem declared an emergency after severe flooding in the southeastern part, leading to the closure of several highways.