Vehicles are missing, overturned, tops of buildings are gone and trees and power lines are down.
There were no immediate reports of injuries, according to the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
But there were reports of several tornados in the area about an hour northeast of Des Moines.
Around 27,000 people live in the town.
Footage shows the town’s courthouse roof being ripped off.
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People took to social media to post photos and video, which show the extent of the damage.
One person said: “Prayers for our friends in Marshalltown, Iowa after a tornado struck downtown there today.”
Another said: “I’m praying for you Marshalltown! Hope everyone is alright.”
And a third added: “Sending all my love and prayers to my hometown of Marshalltown Iowa.
“They just got hit by a massive tornado and I’m hearing reports of catastrophic damage.
“Lots of friends and family still in the area. Hope you’re all safe.”
Marshaltown officials have declared a state of emergency, according to City Administrator Jessica Kinser.
She said in a statement: “Everyone is advised to stay away from downtown Marshalltown until further notice.
“We also ask that people stay off cell lines unless necessary, to allow for emergency phone traffic.”
Many people in the town were without power and Alliant Energy reported 6,690 homes and businesses were without electricity.
Marshalltown is 60miles northeast of Des Moines and around 130 miles south of the Minnesota border.
A small town called Pella, about 50miles south of Marshalltown, was also hit by a tornado which produced catastrophic damage.
More to follow…
She said in a statement: “Everyone is advised to stay away from downtown Marshalltown until further notice.
“We also ask that people stay off cell lines unless necessary, to allow for emergency phone traffic.”
Many people in the town were without power and Alliant Energy reported 6,690 homes and businesses were without electricity.
Marshalltown is 60miles northeast of Des Moines and around 130 miles south of the Minnesota border.
A small town called Pella, about 50miles south of Marshalltown, was also hit by a tornado which produced catastrophic damage.
More to follow…