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Thousands without power as Ames cleanup continues

Alliant Energy and the city itself are the two main electric providers for Ames.

AMES, Iowa — More than 24,000 Ames residents were without power Tuesday following a powerful derecho that brought strong winds into Iowa.

"We've been here 51 years, and this is the worst it's ever been," said Ames resident Jim Brannon.

WATCH: Team coverage of Monday's storms across central Iowa

The storms prompted quick action from public safety and residents alike.

"Everything kind of hit us by surprise like I imagine it hit everybody in Iowa," Story County Sheriff Paul Fitzgerald said. "I think the community deserves a pat on the back. As soon as the storm was over, we were going around and seeing the neighbors and everybody out trying to clear debris and getting everything off the road."

Local 5 Chief Photojournalist Don Schmith shows you the city's cleanup efforts.

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