travel emergency services

Travel Protected

Global emergency travel services.

• Emergency Medical Evacuation

• Vehicle Return

Transportation Home

Global ETS is a SkyMed International Company based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Est. 1989. Our 24-hour global response team professionals have decades of experience and an operational record of zero mishaps in 35 years. Global ETS has been the choice of international travel suppliers at many events, including the Olympics, and the World Cup.

Testimonials from around the world

Global ets membership plan.

Global ETS Premier Essentials plan includes services that provide protection in a medical emergency while traveling away from home.

• Medically Necessary Repatriation
• Return of Dependent Children
• Repatriation of Mortal Remains
• Visit by Family Member or Friend

Member Services Agreement

If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated customer support team below. Thank you for considering Global Emergency Travel Services as your trusted travel protection partner. We look forward to serving you and your family on your upcoming adventures. Safe travels!

Your Plan In Action

How It Works

Should a medical emergency derail your travel, EA+ has you covered no matter where you are. This is how it works.

As a card-carrying member, you can breathe easy knowing that Emergency Assistance Plus—and all of its services—accompanies you wherever you go. Of course, that means you’re well protected should the unforeseen occur while you’re overseas; but those same services are applicable even when you’re taking a quick weekend getaway within the United States. In other words, if you or any plan-covered family member are hospitalized while traveling anywhere in the world, the EA+ team of dedicated specialists will be at the ready to make sure you’re well-cared for and that you get home safe.

Should a medical emergency occur, it’s imperative that you first call 911 or seek medical attention immediately. (EA+ will always be there for you, but it does not act as a first responder. Additionally, most EA+ services only take effect after you or your family member have been admitted to the hospital.*) Once you’re admitted, here’s what happens next:

• Using the emergency phone numbers printed on the back of your EA+ membership ID card, call us . (You can also find those emergency numbers here .).
• You’ll receive intake forms from one of our U.S.-based assistance coordinators, which you and the hospital’s attending physician must fill out. These forms aren’t mere bureaucratic protocol. Instead, they ensure that we receive all the pertinent information to better understand your situation and your needs. Because of that, these forms must be completed and returned to us before we can provide any transportation services.
• Once those forms are received, the EA+ Medical Director will review the paperwork , then consult with your attending physician to ensure that the hospital can provide the specific medical care that you need. Should we deem that you need to be transported to a different hospital, EA+ will make all the necessary arrangements, including reserving you a bed at the closest capable facility and lining up transportation to that new hospital. (If your situation requires immediate transfer to a different hospital and the admitting facility has already made those arrangements, we won’t interfere, as expediency is crucial in these instances.)
• When the time comes for your discharge from the hospital, EA+ will arrange your transportation . If your condition has improved enough to return home, we’ll arrange and provide commercial airfare with as many as two nurse escorts, if necessary. Should you need additional medical care, and your condition doesn’t allow for commercial travel, we’ll provide for you an air ambulance (if deemed medically necessary) to a qualified rehabilitation center nearest your home.
• If you experience a medical emergency while on a road trip and your condition prevents you and everyone else in your traveling party from driving your vehicle home, Emergency Assistance Plus will provide a family member, friend, or a professional driver with one-way, economy airfare to the location of your vehicle so that they can return your vehicle to your home.

*Visiting the Emergency Room does not qualify as being admitted. The services outlined above represent the services of an EA+ Essential membership. You may be eligible for additional services, should you enroll in the EA+ Premier plan.

Theresa & Francis G., New Jersey

The yearly cost for a family plan seems like a bargain after our experience.

“My husband became very ill in Monument Valley and was airlifted to New Mexico where he was hospitalized for 10 days. During his hospitalization EA+ reviewed his condition, made all flight plans for our travel home, and provided transportation to and from the airports. Most importantly, EA+ provided an experienced (and wonderful!) nurse escort to accompany my husband home. I cannot adequately express how reassuring it was to have the EA+ nurse caring for my husband during our journey home. She monitored his vitals and transported the IV medication he required for the first 48 hours at home. We will NEVER travel without EA+ again.”

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Travel Medical Insurance: Emergency Coverage While You Travel Internationally

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

What is travel health insurance?

Travel insurance vs. travel medical insurance, what does travel medical insurance cover, different types of travel medical insurance plans, how to purchase travel medical insurance, credit cards with travel medical insurance, who needs travel health insurance, how much does travel medical insurance cost, medical only travel insurance, how do i use my travel health insurance, what else you need to know, final thoughts on international medical insurance plans.

Travel medical insurance provides protection against unexpected illnesses or injuries during travel abroad.

Premium travel credit cards may offer limited coverage, making stand-alone travel medical insurance necessary.

In case of a medical emergency, contact the insurer, pay expenses and file a reimbursement claim.

Primary vs. secondary coverage: Primary allows direct claims, secondary requires filing with primary first.

If you’re looking for a policy that protects you in the event of an unexpected illness or injury while traveling abroad, then you need to learn about stand-alone travel medical insurance. This type of insurance can be provided by the benefits of certain premium travel credit cards , but the coverages can be both limiting and low in value.

Emergency medical coverage is included within some comprehensive travel insurance policies but can also be purchased on its own. Even if you have a primary U.S. insurance plan, including Medicaid or Medicare, odds are it will help very little (or often not at all) while out of the country.

Checking all the different sources of information can get confusing, and it's easy to misunderstand what type of medical insurance you have when traveling or accidentally duplicate your coverage by purchasing a policy when you already have those benefits covered from another source. Here’s everything you need to know about travel medical insurance so you can choose the best option for your trip.

Travel medical insurance provides reimbursement for emergency medical expenses, including medical evacuations, while you’re traveling. These policies do not provide coverage for routine expenses.

So, if you break your leg while you're on vacation internationally, emergency medical coverage will protect you. However, if you decide to get a teeth cleaning while you’re abroad, you will not be covered. Travel medical insurance is meant to protect you in case of emergency.

Expats, frequent business travelers or individuals who spend significant periods of time living outside the U.S. can purchase a comprehensive travel health insurance policy meant for long-term travelers (more on this below). These policies offer routine medical coverage for those living abroad (generally for one year or longer) rather than vacationers. Long-term international travel health insurance policies should not be confused with travel medical insurance.

Travel medical insurance products and comprehensive policies may also include coverage for family members who are traveling with you, or coverage for a family member to visit you if you become hospitalized. The definition of "family" can vary, but it commonly includes your spouse, children, siblings, parents, grandparents and more. So if your travel companion gets sick or injured during the trip, trip cancellation benefits may kick in. Or if you get hospitalized in a foreign country, the insurer could pay for a flight and hotel accommodations for a designated family member to visit you.

Although natural disasters that impact your plans are usually covered, travel medical insurance policies often exclude pandemics from coverage or those countries that have a ‘Level 4 Do Not Travel’ advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State . If U.S. citizens travel to those countries, travel medical insurance services may not be available. It's important to check the fine print of your policy to determine what may or may not be covered.

A comprehensive travel insurance policy will include more protections than stand-alone travel medical insurance.

Travel medical insurance plans will have protections related to emergency medical events, while comprehensive trip insurance policies cover everything from medical care to trip cancellations.

Here are how those differences generally shake out.

With travel medical insurance, there are no trip cancellation benefits, so the cost of the trip is irrelevant. This makes the policy cheaper compared to purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, where you’ll need to include the entire nonrefundable cost of your vacation when calculating your quote.

Although travel medical plans can include coverage for benefits like trip interruption, the covered amounts will usually be limited.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

You will be reimbursed for unplanned, emergency medical costs that you incur during your trip. We reviewed several travel medical insurance plans on InsureMyTrip and found that they offer the following protections:

Since we reviewed several policies in the chart above, these limits show a wide range.

» Learn more: Does travel insurance cover medical expenses? Kinda.

Both the type of trip and type of coverage determine which travel medical policy makes the most sense. You’ll need to become familiar with four terms: primary coverage, secondary coverage, single trip and multi-trip.

Primary vs. secondary coverage

Travel medical insurance plans will refer to medical coverage as primary or secondary.

Primary means that you can submit a claim to your travel medical insurance company before submitting to any other insurer.

When the policy is secondary , you will need to submit your claim to your primary insurance provider before you can submit a claim to the travel insurance provider.

For example, say you break your leg on vacation and have to go to the emergency room right away. If your travel health insurance is primary, you can pay your medical bill with your credit card and then submit a claim directly to the travel insurer.

However, if your travel medical coverage is secondary, you will first have to submit this claim to your U.S.-based medical insurer even though they may deny the claim (because the policies limit coverage abroad). You may even be required to include the refusal notice from your primary insurance along with your claim to your secondary travel health insurer.

Single-trip vs. multi-trip

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or go on vacation only once a year, you can choose a policy that is tailored to your travel needs. You can purchase either single- or multi-trip coverage, and it's important to know the difference between the two types.

Single-trip medical travel insurance: You leave home, travel internationally and return home. You can visit as many countries as you like while traveling, but when you return home, the coverage ends. These plans are purchased for each trip, whether you’re gone for four days or four weeks.

Multi-trip coverage: You can leave, travel and return home as many times as you want during the covered period. You can, for example, leave home, travel to France for a week, return home for a month, travel to Panama for three weeks and return home. The coverage continues no matter how many times you return home as long as each trip does not exceed the allowable period (usually 30 to 90 days). These plans must be purchased on an annual basis, and they require you to have health insurance in the United States.

Multi-trip coverage makes sense (and is usually more cost effective) if you travel frequently and do not want to purchase a single policy each time you go on an international trip. However, if you do not have medical insurance in the U.S., you will not be covered under multi-trip plans.

Do I need to have primary health insurance in the U.S. to be eligible for travel medical insurance?

The answer to this question is: maybe. It depends on the type of coverage you have. If your single-trip plan refers to your medical coverage as primary, you don’t need another health insurance policy. However, if the coverage provided under your single-trip plan is secondary, then you must have primary health insurance.

As noted above, all multi-trip plans require that you have primary medical insurance coverage in the U.S.

» Learn more: What to do if you get sick while traveling overseas

You can search for medical travel policies on insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner), InsureMyTrip or Travel Guard . Policies differ by state, and availability may change during or after the pandemic, so verify that the state you reside in offers travel medical insurance in light of coronavirus.

You might already have some travel medical insurance from an existing credit card in your wallet. If your limits are sufficient for your risk tolerance, you might forego purchasing a separate travel medical insurance policy or plan.

Let's take a look at the Chase Sapphire Reserve® coverage, for example. It offers emergency medical coverage up to $2,500 (maximum $10,000 per trip) with a $50 deductible. This card has an annual fee of $550 .

In contrast, the policies we've discussed above, offer medical coverage from $50,000 to $2,000,000. That's significantly more coverage from the third-party option.

So if you want a higher limit — even if you have a premium travel credit card with existing medical coverage — purchasing a complementary plan may make sense.

This can be especially true if you are traveling in a country with expensive healthcare, will be traveling in remote or rural areas, or will be participating in higher-risk adventures.

Credit card travel medical insurance coverage doesn't always include pre-existing conditions. Check your terms.

If that $550 annual fee makes you cringe, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve® 's 'little sibling' card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has similar, but fewer, benefits but for a more moderate annual fee of $95 . It offers identical travel medical insurance.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

If you plan on traveling and your existing medical insurance will not cover you in the country you are traveling to, buying a travel medical insurance plan could make sense. You could either purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or one that only provides medical coverage.

Purchasing a policy strictly for travel medical insurance is a good idea for those who want emergency coverage while traveling but:

Have a premium travel card that already provides trip cancellation and trip delay coverage the individual deems sufficient.

Do not need trip cancellation, trip delay or the other benefits provided by a comprehensive policy because the traveler will remain in one location for a while and is not worried about a canceled trip.

If you do not have a travel card with trip cancellation benefits and you also want emergency medical coverage, then you’re better off with a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

The cost of the policy varies based on a number of factors including:

The country you’re going to.

The state you’re from.

Coverage provided.

NerdWallet conducted a full analysis of medical travel insurance costs and found that it’s typically 7% of your overall trip cost. For example, travel insurance will cost you an additional $140 (roughly) for a $2,000 trip.

Here's a closer look at medical benefits provided by some standalone travel insurance providers. Note that these plans typically include other non-medical only travel insurance benefits.

Travelex: Travel Select

The Travel Select plan from Travelex breaks its medical travel insurance into two separate categories:

Emergency medical expense : $50,000 (with a dental coverage sublimit of $500).

Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains : $500,000 (with an escort coverage limit of $25,000).

If you purchase the plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment, your coverage will also include a pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver.

Seven Corners Trip Protection Choice

The Seven Corners Trip Protection Choice plan includes more coverage than its Basic counterpart.

Emergency accident and sickness medical expense: Up to $500,000 Primary Coverage.

Emergency dental: Up to $750.

Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains: Up to $1 million. This includes emergency medical evacuation, medical repatriation and repatriation of remains coverage.

If you encounter a medical emergency while traveling, contact your travel insurance provider about how to proceed.

You will likely need to pay for your medical expenses using your credit card and subsequently file a claim for reimbursement with the insurer.

Some coverage (e.g., emergency evacuation) may need to be arranged by your travel medical insurance provider to be eligible for reimbursement.

In all instances, it's best to contact your insurance provider before making any arrangements or paying any bills.

Terminology

Similar to your regular health insurance, travel medical coverage also comes with limits, exclusions and deductibles.

Exclusions are specific events that are excluded from coverage. For example, some plans may exclude coverage for activities (e.g., skydiving) that are deemed risky. Check the policy to make sure that the activities you plan to partake in are not excluded.

Limits are monetary caps on coverage. For example, the policy may cover emergency dental treatment but only up to $500 worth. Anything over that maximum you would be responsible for paying.

A deductible is an amount you need to pay before your policy will reimburse. For example, if you have a policy with a $250 deductible and you submit claims for eligible expenses totaling $400, the insurer will reimburse you only $150. Policies can often be customized to increase or decrease the deductible.

The lower the deductible, the more expensive the policy and vice versa.

Long-term travel medical insurance options for expats

Individuals who live or work abroad and spend a considerable portion of the year living outside the U.S. are eligible for a travel health insurance plan that provides coverage for routine medical care. These policies are different from travel medical insurance, which is meant to cover only emergencies.

Long-term international travel health insurance plans usually have higher limits than travel medical insurance policies and are available on a long-term basis only (one year or more).

The policies are only available for one year or longer and have high maximum limits of $1,000,000 to $8,000,000. The plans are customizable and allow you to receive worldwide medical treatment.

For the most part, your U.S.-based medical insurance provider will not cover your medical treatment when you’re abroad. If you want peace of mind while you’re on a trip away from your home country, a travel medical insurance plan is your best bet.

Anytime before your trip begins.

Generally, the emergency medical insurance coverage on credit cards offers fewer protections and lower limits than a stand-alone policy. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers emergency medical coverage up to $2,500 with a $50 deductible. The policies we looked at above offered medical coverage from $50,000 to $2,000,000. If you want a higher limit, you may want to purchase a travel medical insurance policy.

It depends on the type of coverage you’re looking for. Generally, if you’re only concerned with emergency medical benefits and don’t need trip cancellation, trip delay, rental car coverage or any of the other benefits provided by a comprehensive travel insurance plan, a medical plan should be enough for you. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and your particular circumstances determine which policy is most suitable.

Yes. Travelers can purchase medical-only travel insurance coverage, and on the bright side, this type of plan is often more affordable than comprehensive policies. In 2023, travelers spent an average of $96 on medical-only travel insurance, versus over $400 on average for comprehensive plans, according to Squaremouth.

Generally, the emergency medical insurance coverage on credit cards offers fewer protections and lower limits than a stand-alone policy. For example, the

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

offers emergency medical coverage up to $2,500 with a $50 deductible. The policies we looked at above offered medical coverage from $50,000 to $2,000,000. If you want a higher limit, you may want to purchase a travel medical insurance policy.

Travel health insurance can protect you if you experience an unexpected medical emergency during a trip. Although this is a topic no one wants to think about, it's important to know your options.

Depending on the coverage you’re looking for, you can either pick a stand-alone medical policy or get a comprehensive travel insurance one. Deciding what policy is best depends on your situation and any additional protections you may already have through your premium travel credit card.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

sign up and keep track of your travel insurance events

Travel Assistance and Other Services Included with Generali Travel Protection Plans

What if you encounter an emergency on vacation and need a translator, medical referral or cash transfer? Many people know the value of travel insurance , which can reimburse you for certain unforeseen mishaps such as baggage loss, flight delays or a covered situation that could require you to cancel your trip . But do you know that our plans include travel insurance services that allow travelers to get help with certain emergency situations that could come up during their trip, or even just help finding a good restaurant at your destination?

Look below for a list of the travel insurance services included with our Standard, Preferred and Premium travel insurance plans and how they can help you before, during and after your trip. If you buy a Generali travel insurance plan, it’s good to know what travel assistance services are at your fingertips, just in case you need them.

Generali policyholders that need emergency help from an available service can call 877-243-4135 toll-free 24 hours a day from within the United States, or call collect to 240-330-1529 from around the world.

Looking to insure your trip?  Get the right travel protection plan

24-Hour Emergency Assistance Services

These services offer on-the-spot and immediate travel assistance for unexpected problems that can arise during a trip. The hotline is available to Generali policyholders 24/7 for help anytime, anyplace while traveling.

Medical Referral If an emergency occurs during a trip that requires a visit to a doctor, you can call the Emergency Hotline to obtain the names of local qualified doctors who speak their language. If additional medical services are required, the assistance provider is prepared to consult with the attending physician and provide assistance services that they believe is in your best interest.

Traveling Companion Assistance If a traveling companion loses previously-made travel arrangements due to a medical emergency, a qualified assistance provider will arrange for the traveling companion’s return home.

Emergency Cash Transfer If your cash or traveler’s checks are lost or stolen, or unanticipated emergency expenses are incurred, the assistance provider will help arrange for an emergency cash transfer in currency, traveler’s checks, or other forms as deemed acceptable by the assistance provider. The assistance provider will advance up to $500 after satisfactory guarantee of reimbursement from you.

Legal Referral The assistance provider will locate attorneys available during regular working hours. Assistance will also be provided to advance bail bond, where permitted by law. Policyholders are responsible for contracted legal fees.

Locating Lost or Stolen Items This travel assistance service offers help locating and replacing lost or stolen luggage, documents and personal possessions.

Replacement of Medication and Eyeglasses Arrangements can be made to fill a prescription that has been lost, stolen or requires a refill whenever possible (subject to local law). They will also arrange for shipment to replace eyeglasses. ( Costs for shipping of medication or eyeglasses, or a prescription refill, etc. are the responsibility of the insured.) The refill may require a visit to a local physician. You should be prepared to furnish the assistance provider with a copy of their original prescription and/or the name and phone number of their regular attending physician.

Embassy and Consular Services Referrals can be arranged if you need the assistance of U.S. embassies and consulates.

Worldwide Medical Information Information can be provided, such as necessary inoculation and vaccination information, and detailed general health and medical descriptions of destinations around the world.

Interpretation/Translation Call the assistance provider for help with interpretation in all major languages or will be referred to a translation service for written documents.

Emergency Message Relay Emergency messages can be relayed to and from friends, relatives, personal physicians and employers.

Pet Return If you’re traveling with a pet and you experience a medical emergency, this travel assistance service can provide arrangements to return the pet home.

Vehicle Return If you experience a medical emergency or mechanical problem with your vehicle that prevents you from driving, this travel assistance service can make arrangements to return the vehicle to your home or the closest rental agency.

Also read:  What to Know Before you Go on a Trip with Travel Insurance

Meet the Team

Generali travel insurance plans include access to an international network of employees and partners available to provide the best possible travel and emergency assistance services worldwide, so you can travel with more peace of mind.

In-House Medical Experts

Telemedicine.

Getting sick on vacation is never fun, but it doesn’t have to be difficult for you to find help if that happens. If you’re not feeling well and would like to consult with a doctor via phone or video, a virtual visit with a licensed physician is available 24 hours a day as part of the Medical and Dental coverage included with your travel protection plan. Connect instantly with a network of physicians for information, advice, and treatment, including prescription medication, when appropriate and legally permitted.

Telemedicine services are available during your domestic or international trip. Limitations may exist on the availability of prescription medication outside of the U.S.

Read more about Telemedicine

No Out-of-Pocket Medical

Medical and Dental coverage included with our plans can reimburse you for necessary medical, surgical and emergency dental care costs if you get sick or accidentally injured on your trip. But, our plans also include a travel insurance service that can make that process much easier for you.

With our No Out-of-Pocket Medical Expenses service, we can schedule your doctor’s appointment and arrange upfront payment of up to $1,000 if you have an acute illness during your trip, while traveling in an area where this service is available. To use this service during your trip, call Emergency Assistance .

Identity Theft Resolution

Everyone should be on guard about identity theft, but it’s something that travelers should be especially wary of, as they’re usually carrying documents, IDs and credit cards in unfamiliar places. Many travelers also rely on public wifi to look things up on their trip. This travel insurance service is designed to help our policyholders if their identity is compromised during their vacation.

ID Theft Resolution Services include:

• Contacting creditors to notify them about fraudulent activity and request to cancel affected cards and issue new ones
• Assistance reporting the fraudulent activity to local authorities and forwarding a report to creditors
• A helpful ID Theft Resolution Kit
• Assistance in notifying banks or other agencies if identification such as an ATM card, passport or driver’s license is stolen
• Education about how identity theft happens and tips on protective measures for the future

When you buy a Generali travel insurance plan you’ll not only have access to this travel assistance service while on vacation, but also after your trip, since often times travelers don’t notice the theft until they arrive home. ID Theft Resolution Service is automatically included for a full 180 days starting on the scheduled departure date.

ID Theft Resolution does not include assistance for thefts involving non-U.S. bank accounts.

Also read:  9 Ways to Prevent Identity Theft When You Travel

Concierge Services

Would you like access to a service that offers pre-trip assistance, helps schedule golf tee times, makes restaurant, airline and rental car reservations, and reserves tickets for entertainment and other special events? Our plans include concierge services that can help you with those situations and more, both before and during your trip.

See examples of how travel concierge services can be used

Here’s an overview of what’s included with our concierge services:

City profiles : provides access to information on over 10,000 destinations worldwide, including a complete report on local entertainment, social customs, and health advisories

Epicurean needs : arranges the delivery of specialized foods and beverages to home or office, including gourmet food and fine wine

Event ticketing : assists with acquiring tickets to virtually any sporting, theater or concert event worldwide

Flowers and gift baskets : includes the purchase and shipment of flowers and gift baskets to friends, family members and business associates

Golf outings and tee times : provides referrals and tee times at golf courses around the world

Hotel accommodations:  offers research and recommendations on hotels worldwide and can book reservations if requested

Meet-and-greet services : arranges for pick-ups of friends, family members or business associates at airports or other common carrier destinations by limousine personnel

Personalized retail shopping assistance : includes purchasing selected retail items at your request

Procurement of hard-to-find items : our service provider will use every means possible to obtain an obscure or exotic item at your request

Pre-trip travel assistance : provides information on travel destinations, city profiles, weather, special events, ATM locations, currency exchange rates, immunization and passport requirements as well as related services

Restaurant reviews and reservations : provides information on restaurants worldwide and the ability to book reservations from anywhere, anytime

Rental car reservations : provides worldwide reservations through most major rental car agencies

Airline reservations : helps reserve full-service air travel accommodations to destinations worldwide

Pet services locator : helps find pet-related services such as veterinarians and pet sitters

This is a service to research, refer, arrange and/or place a reservation. The actual costs of goods will need to be paid by the traveler.

Learn more about travel insurance: •  What is Travel Insurance? •  How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost? •  Top 5 Reasons to Get Travel Insurance

You may choose to insure your trip in case you encounter a medical emergency or you’re forced to cancel your trip due to a covered event, but Generali travel insurance plans aren’t just about the insurance coverages. When you purchase one of our plans, you get access to dozens of different travel assistance services at your fingertips when you need them most.

*Services are provided by Generali's designated provider.

Travel Resources

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As part of the worldwide Generali Group we have rebranded our travel protection plans to Generali Global Assistance, offering the same quality travel insurance, emergency assistance and outstanding customer service as you've come to rely on for the last 25 years. Welcome to our new website!

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The Comprehensive Guide to Emergency Medical Travel Insurance

What is medical repatriation?

Medical repatriation means getting you home after an illness or injury, once you’re well enough to travel. Repatriation can be as simple as booking a standard airline ticket, or as complex as arranging a private air ambulance with a medical escort.

Medical repatriation costs can be high — as much as $1 million in especially challenging situations, according to some estimates. 1  Your emergency transportation benefits can cover medically necessary repatriation costs up to the stated limit.

What happens if I get sick or injured while traveling and I don’t have emergency medical travel insurance?

That depends on where you’re traveling and the specific nature of your emergency. However, you should know that you’ll be 100% responsible for the costs of any care you receive. If you’re in another country, the local U.S. Embassy will not pay any portion of your medical costs.

If you get sick or injured overseas and you don’t have insurance, you may:

• Be treated in a public hospital or clinic that does not offer a high standard of care
• Have to pay cash upfront before receiving medical care
• Be refused treatment if you’re unable to pay
• Have to manage your own treatment and figure out how to get yourself home

Is it likely that I’ll get sick or injured while traveling?

Travel, by its very nature, is unpredictable. You may do a 9-day trekking tour of Croatia and never take a tumble. You may be strolling through a park in Buenos Aires and get knocked down by a wayward cyclist. Anything can happen, and that’s why you need travel insurance with emergency medical benefits.

Each year, our Assistance team fields thousands of calls from travelers who are experiencing a medical emergency. The most common emergencies we see are fractures from falls, cardiovascular problems (such as heart attacks and strokes), trauma from vehicle accidents and other accidents, and pulmonary/respiratory conditions.

Which travel insurance plans include emergency medical benefits?

Plans with emergency medical benefits include:

• OneTrip Basic , an economical plan with limited post-departure benefits
• OneTrip Prime , a popular plan with substantial benefits and free coverage for children 17 and under when traveling with a parent or grandparent
• OneTrip Premier , which doubles most OneTrip Prime post-departure benefit limits
• OneTrip Emergency Medical , a flexible and affordable plan that includes only post-departure benefits
• AllTrips Basic , an annual travel insurance plan that provides emergency medical benefits for frequent travelers
• AllTrips Prime , which offers affordable, reliable protection for a full 365 days of travel
• AllTrips Executive , an annual plan built for business travelers
• AllTrips Premier , which protects world travelers with multiple tiers of benefits

Wondering which plan is right for you? Get a quote for your next trip .

What’s covered by the emergency dental benefits in my travel insurance plan?

Breaking a tooth can spoil your trip just as surely as breaking an ankle. Fortunately, your emergency medical benefits also can cover emergency dental care. Just be aware that a sublimit applies to these benefits. For example, if you have a $20,000 limit for emergency medical benefits, that may include a $750 limit for dental benefits.

You should know, too, that these benefits are for dental emergency care only: a dental injury or infection, a lost filling, or a broken tooth that requires treatment. Your travel insurance won’t cover preventive care, cosmetic procedures, or any procedure that could safely wait until you return home.

What does emergency medical travel insurance not cover?

Travel insurance is designed to protect you in case of certain, unforeseen travel mishaps and emergencies. It’s not intended to apply to every possible scenario. When you read your plan documents, you’ll see that your travel insurance does not cover:

• Pre-existing medical conditions , unless your plan includes the existing medical condition waiver and you’ve met all the requirements
• Any medical condition that resulted in you being unable to travel on your policy or trip purchase date
• Non-emergency care or services, such as elective cosmetic surgery, routine exams, long-term care, and other types of care
• Any loss, condition, or event that was known, foreseeable, intended, or expected when your policy or trip was purchased
• Intentional self-harm
• Normal pregnancy or childbirth
• The use or abuse of alcohol or drugs, or any related physical symptoms
• Participating in or training for any professional or amateur sporting competition
• Participating in extreme, high-risk sports and activities

This is only a partial list of exclusions. Please check your plan documents for the specific exclusions associated with your plan.

Do my emergency medical travel insurance benefits cover COVID-19?

Getting sick with COVID can be miserable… and it’s even worse if you’re far from home. But we’re here to help!

If your plan includes emergency medical benefits and the Epidemic Coverage Endorsement , then you may be reimbursed for costs for emergency medical care for COVID-19 or another covered illness, up to your specific plan’s maximum limit for the emergency medical benefit.

If your plan includes emergency transportation benefits and the Epidemic Coverage Endorsement, then your medically necessary evacuation — whether you have COVID-19 or another covered illness/injury — may be covered. You also get medical repatriation benefits, which means we can arrange and pay for your transportation home once you’re well enough to travel (with medical accommodations, if necessary).

Please note, this coverage only applies to plans that include the applicable benefit and covered reason. All benefits are subject to maximum limits of liability, which may in some cases be subject to sublimits and daily maximums. See your plan for details.

So how do emergency medical benefits work? Does my travel insurance pay upfront for medical care, or reimburse me later?

That depends on the situation. If the medical care you need is minor, such as getting stitches for a cut or a splint for a sprained wrist, you may pay out of pocket and then file a claim for reimbursement later.

If you need to be admitted to a hospital for inpatient care for longer than 24 hours, Allianz Global Assistance can guarantee or advance payments, where accepted, up to the limit of your emergency medical/dental coverage.

If you need emergency medical transportation, we can arrange and pay for it. In order for emergency transportation to be covered, however, Allianz Global Assistance must determine that it’s medically necessary and make the arrangement in advance. If we did not authorize and arrange the transportation, we will only pay up to what we would have paid if we had made the arrangements.

If I have a medical emergency while traveling, what should I do?

• Don’t panic! Allianz Global Assistance is here to guide you.
• If your illness or injury is life-threatening and/or requires immediate attention, call local emergency services. Remember that 911 doesn’t work in every country. Use the free Allianz TravelSmart app to instantly access the right emergency number for your location.
• As soon as possible, contact Assistance and tell us what’s going on. Our Assistance team can refer you to a local, pre-screened medical provider; provide interpretation services when speaking with medical providers; guarantee payments to doctors or hospitals; and more.
• If our medical team determines that local medical facilities aren’t sufficient to treat your condition, we can arrange emergency transportation to the nearest appropriate facility.
• As you’re being treated, your Assistance coordinator will stay in touch with your doctor, review your medical reports, handle billing and keep your designated family member or friend updated on your condition.
• Once you’re stable enough to travel, we’ll arrange transportation home. If you need continuing medical care in the United States, we’ll work with your health insurance provider and your primary healthcare provider to figure out a treatment plan.

Read more: What To Do In A Medical Emergency

Is my emergency medical travel insurance primary or secondary coverage?

It’s secondary coverage, which means that if you have health insurance, you must submit your claim to that provider first. Any payments or reimbursements from your other insurance providers will be deducted from your claim. Not sure what your insurance covers? Contact us and we can help you figure it out.

Is there any deductible or co-pay for my emergency medical travel insurance benefits?

No, there’s no deductible or co-pay. There is, however, a maximum limit for your emergency medical/dental and emergency transportation benefits, which you’ll find in your plan documents.

How do I know if my travel insurance plan covers existing medical conditions?

You’ll need to select a plan that offers a Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver, and also meet the requirements in your plan. In short, if you insure your full non-refundable trip costs within 14 days of paying your first trip deposit, and you’re medically able to travel when you do so, you can be covered for most existing medical conditions.

An existing medical condition is defined as an injury, illness, or medical condition that, within the 120 days prior to and including the policy purchase date:

• Caused a person to seek medical examination, diagnosis, care, or treatment by a doctor;
• Presented symptoms; or
• Required a person to take medication prescribed by a doctor (unless the condition or symptoms are controlled by that prescription, and the prescription has not changed).

The illness, injury, or medical condition does not need to be formally diagnosed in order to be considered a pre-existing medical condition.

Read more: When Does Travel Insurance Cover Existing Medical Conditions?

How can the TravelSmart app help?

The Allyz ®  TravelSmart app from Allianz Global Assistance can help you navigate medical emergencies (and other crises) almost anywhere in the world. Use the app to:

• Contact Assistance for help
• Contact local emergency services with a single tap
• Find the closest hospitals, doctors and pharmacies, including those that Allianz Global Assistance has identified as preferred providers
• Get quick translations of first-aid and medication terms to help you communicate with doctors and pharmacists

Related Articles

• Medical Emergency While Traveling? The TravelSmart App Can Help
• How Assistance Services Can Help in Medical Travel Emergencies
• Help Us Help You: The Emergency Travel Assistance Checklist

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Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

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24/7 Emergency Travel Assistance

Our emergency assistance team is ready to respond to medical emergencies or security threats as they happen..

Emergency travel assistance can help take the stress out of travelling by providing peace of mind in case of an emergency. At World Travel Protection we put the health and well-being of travellers at the forefront of everything we do.

We continually monitor potential risks and threats around the world that may impact travel plans so we can alert the traveller with any possible dangers. While at the same time, we can be reached 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year by giving us a call or by alerting us to trouble via the Travel Assist app .

Investing in emergency travel assistance can help to mitigate risks and give peace of mind to travel managers and their travellers. And should an incident of any kind occur, our 24/7 emergency assistance team is ready to respond.

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Our emergency travel assistance command centres.

Our global emergency travel assistance Command Centres have access to world-class technology and travel risk management intelligence that allows us to be the first to know if there is a country threat, before they affect travellers or their risk managers. Whether there is a natural disaster or a political or security event occurring during a participant’s travel, we will know about it fast.

Should a potential threat interfere with our travellers’ plans or intersect with their current location, we’ll share our insights and expert recommendations in real time. On the ground travellers will receive push notifications via our Travel Assist App and their risk managers will be notified through their Travel Assist Portal.

This proactive, insight-driven approach to mitigating potential risks not only empowers travellers to make smarter choices on what to do and where to go next, but also keeps those responsible for them informed.

Supporting Travellers 24 Hours a Day

We have dedicated emergency travel assistance Command Centres located in Brisbane (Australia), Toronto (Canada) and London (UK). We also have a supporting Assistance Centre in Buenos Aires (Argentina) via our sister company Universal Assistance .

These global emergency travel assistance Command Centres are staffed with over 200 highly qualified personnel, including doctors, registered nurses and registered paramedics, and security, case managers and logistics professionals who operate seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

Prevent Emergencies Before They Happen

At World Travel Protection, we support travelling personnel and their risk managers by considering all ‘reasonably foreseeable’ medical situations that may occur while they’re abroad and help mitigate any travel medical risks.

Our expert team’s preventative is possible thanks to:

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Do you want to learn how to best keep your travellers safe? Schedule a demo of our Travel Risk Management Tools by clicking the button below. We’ll demonstrate why over one million customers have chosen World Travel Protection to support them through our emergency medical, security and travel assistance services.

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Cancelled flight? Are you stranded in an unfamiliar place? Let WorldTravelService® guide you to your final destination no matter what time of day. We provide Travel24™, 24 Hour Emergency Travel Service, which provides emergency support that you can access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year!

Emergency Travel Assistance

We use the best travel technology available to ensure complete accuracy, cost, efficiency, and security. Your complete satisfaction in every aspect of your experience with WorldTravelService® is our number one goal. As part of the world’s largest global distribution system, we have access to an unlimited range of route options and amenities. This gives us the opportunity to find last minute flights and reservations that other agencies cannot. Our Travel24™ emergency support service provides:

• Emergency assistance
• 24  hour information and travel advice
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• Passport and visa services
• Reservation adjustments
• Emergency return travel arrangements
• Roadside assistance
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• Guaranteed hotel check-in
• Missed connections coordination
• Lost/stolen baggage assistance

How Does the Emergency Travel Service Work?

All WorldTravelService® travelers are provided with a 24 hour emergency service telephone number with their itinerary package . We find that service by telephone is often the quickest and most efficient way for our clients to get ahold of our 24 hour travel agents. In the event you cannot call via telephone you will have access to a live person who knows your travel information via email or fax. Our emergency travel agents have the ability to access any and all existing bookings as well as build new ones on behalf of any WorldTravelService® traveler.

24 Hour Alerts and Security

Here at WorldTravelService®, our highest priority is the safety and security of our clients. With that, we:

• Continuously monitor state department alerts so that we can inform you of any changing circumstances that may influence future travel activities.
• Provide up-to-the-minute Transportation Security Administration (TSA) updates.
• Alert you to any other issues that may affect your trip.
• Provide travel and safety tips .

Why Choose WorldTravelService®

Thousands of  happy travelers trust their travel needs with us. We hope you’ll give us the chance to show you why we are considered one of the best. We are committed to providing high-quality, cost-effective group travel management to our clients.

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Emergency Travel

This page is for noncitizens in the United States who need to travel outside of the United States because of an emergency and are seeking a travel document to authorize their return.  

If you are already outside the United States and need to return, but do not have your reentry permit, Green Card, or advance parole document because it was lost, stolen, or destroyed, see Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) page. 

If you are currently inside the United States and need to leave the United States because of an emergency, you should know what documents you will need to reenter the United States. You also should understand whether leaving the United States could negatively affect your immigration status or pending applications for immigration benefits.  

If you are returning to the United States after temporary travel abroad, you generally must have in your possession either:  

• A valid entry document, such as a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or nonimmigrant visa; or  
• A valid and unexpired travel document, such as a reentry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole document.  

You generally need to apply for and obtain a travel document before you leave the United States. You may request a travel document by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.  

For more information, see the Travel Documents page.

Expedited Processing of an Application for Travel Document

If you have a pressing or critical need to travel and must leave the United States by a certain date, we encourage you to submit a request to expedite your pending application at least 45 days before the date you intend to leave, if possible.  

You may ask us to expedite adjudication of your Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , by calling the Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) or by asking Emma. (You can access Emma by clicking on the Ask Emma icon on the top right of this page.) If you have a USCIS online account and access to secure messaging, you may submit your request there by selecting “expedite” as your inquiry type. You will be asked to upload documents in your online account to support your request.  

You may ask USCIS to expedite the following types of travel documents:

• Advance parole documents for noncitizens in the United States seeking to return after temporary travel abroad (including advance permission to travel for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term residents);
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) travel authorization documents;
• Reentry permits; and
• Refugee travel documents.

For more information, please visit the Expedite Requests page and the USCIS Policy Manual Expedite Requests guidance.  

Emergency Issuance of Travel Documents

If you are in the United States and have a pressing or critical need to travel outside the United States in less than 15 days, USCIS may issue an emergency travel document.  USCIS may issue an emergency travel document for an:

• Advance parole document; or
• TPS travel authorization document.  

Examples may include:

• A requestor who has a pressing or critical need to travel to obtain medical treatment in a limited amount of time.
• A requestor who has a pressing or critical need to travel due to the death or grave illness of a family member or close friend.
• A requestor who timely applied for a travel document and requested expedited processing, but their case remains pending, and they now must travel within 15 days for a pressing or critical professional, academic, or personal commitment.

To ask about emergency processing of a travel document, call the Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) or request an appointment through My Appointment . If your situation qualifies for emergency processing, we will schedule an appointment for you with a local field office.

Required Documents

If you have an appointment with a USCIS field office for emergency issuance of a travel document, you should bring:

• A completed and signed Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with any applicable filing fee (Note: Even if you already have a pending Form I-131, you still need to file a new Form 1-131, with fee, if applicable, during your local field office appointment.);
• Evidence to support eligibility for the travel document (see the form filing instructions);
• Evidence to demonstrate the pressing or critical need to travel (see the Expedite Requests page); and
• 2 passport-style photos.

Any documentation in a language other than English must include a full certified English translation. 

Global Risk & Safety Updates

Health and Safety Updates

April 26, 2024 , Filed Under: General , Safety and Security

Passport Requirements and Emergency Assistance

Passport requirements and recommendations.

Are you planning to travel abroad in the near future? If so, you will need a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months after your anticipated date of return to the United States .

We also highly recommend confirming that your emergency contact person also has a valid passport, in case they need to travel abroad to support you for a medical emergency requiring an extended stay in the hospital.

You can apply for a new passport or renew your existing one at Texas Global ! The Passport Services office is an authorized U.S. passport acceptance facility offering appointment-based services to the public, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit Passport Services at Texas Global for more information.

Insurance and Emergency Assistance

Did you know that all UT Austin students and employees are enrolled in overseas insurance and emergency assistance coverage through On Call International?

This service provides emergency travel benefits to allow your emergency contact person to join you in cases when hospitalization is required for more than 24 hours. Learn more about this policy by visiting the Global Risk and Safety webpage for Overseas Insurance .

If you have any questions or concerns about upcoming international travel, please contact the Texas Global Risk and Safety team at [email protected] .

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Travel | An emergency slide falls off a California-bound…

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Travel | may day and gaza protests sweeping the bay area wednesday, travel | an emergency slide falls off a california-bound delta plane, forcing pilots to return to new york.

Delta said that after takeoff the pilots got an alert about the emergency slide on the plane’s right side and heard an unusual sound coming from that area of the Boeing 767 jet, which is listed as having been manufactured in 1990.

The Federal Aviation Administration said the crew reported a vibration.

Pilots declared an emergency so the flight could be be routed quickly back to the airport, and the plane landed and taxied to a gate under its own power, according to the airline.

Delta said the plane was removed from service for evaluation and it was cooperating with investigators and supporting efforts to find the slide.

“As nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people, Delta flight crews enacted their extensive training and followed procedures to return to JFK,” the airline said in a statement.

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Managing Emergency Response with Science and Technology

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) works closely with first responders to improve their safety and effectiveness—lending expertise, conducting research and development, and funding innovation to ensure our nation’s public safety services are well-equipped to provide aid in times of crisis. Those efforts are guided by direct engagement with responders from across the country as well as invaluable insight gained through the First Responder Resource Group. Experienced firefighters, paramedics, police officers, emergency managers, and other public safety disciplines across our nation volunteer to help S&T focus on top-priority needs and assess that technology solutions meet those needs. Thus, the emergency management community is naturally considered a key stakeholder and S&T is proud to serve the men and women sworn to protect all of us. The following is a select sampling of activities showcasing our work in support of emergency management.

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USDA Actions to Protect Livestock Health From Highly Pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza

Federal Order to assist with developing a baseline of critical information and limiting the spread of H5N1 in dairy cattle

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2024 – To further protect the U.S. livestock industry from the threat posed by highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza, USDA is sharing a number of actions that we are taking with our federal partners to help us get ahead of this disease and limit its spread.

Today, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced a Federal Order requiring the following measures, effective Monday, April 29, 2024:

Mandatory Testing for Interstate Movement of Dairy Cattle

• Prior to interstate movement, dairy cattle are required to receive a negative test for Influenza A virus at an approved National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) laboratory.
• Owners of herds in which dairy cattle test positive for interstate movement will be required to provide epidemiological information, including animal movement tracing.
• Dairy cattle moving interstate must adhere to conditions specified by APHIS.
• As will be described in forthcoming guidance, these steps will be immediately required for lactating dairy cattle, while these requirements for other classes of dairy cattle will be based on scientific factors concerning the virus and its evolving risk profile.

Mandatory Reporting

• Laboratories and state veterinarians must report positive Influenza A nucleic acid detection diagnostic results (e.g. PCR or genetic sequencing) in livestock to USDA APHIS.
• Laboratories and state veterinarians must report positive Influenza A serology diagnostic results in livestock to USDA APHIS.

USDA has identified spread between cows within the same herd, spread from cows to poultry, spread between dairies associated with cattle movements, and cows without clinical signs that have tested positive. On April 16, APHIS microbiologists identified a shift in an H5N1 sample from a cow in Kansas that could indicate that the virus has an adaptation to mammals. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted further analysis of the specimen sequence, which did not change their overall risk assessment for the general public, because the substitution has been seen previously in other mammalian infections and does not impact viral transmission. Additionally, APHIS’ National Veterinary Services Laboratories found H5N1 in a lung tissue sample from an asymptomatic cull dairy cow that originated from an affected herd and did not enter the food supply.

The novel movement of H5N1 between wild birds and dairy cows requires further testing and time to develop a critical understanding to support any future courses of action. This Federal Order is critical to increasing the information available for USDA. Requiring positive test reporting will help USDA better under this disease and testing before interstate movement will limit its spread.

While we are taking this action today, it is important to remember that thus far, we have not found changes to the virus that would make it more transmissible to humans and between people. While cases among humans in direct contact with infected animals are possible, our partners at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believe that the current risk to the public remains low.

Additionally, we continue to see affected cows recover after supported care with little to no associated mortality. We also continue to work with our partners in the states and industry to emphasize the critical importance biosecurity plays in limiting disease spread for all livestock and poultry.

You may view the Federal Order , which is effective on Monday, April 29, 2024.

Further, in an effort to maximize understanding and research on H5N1 in dairy cattle, on April 21, APHIS made publicly available 239 genetic sequences from the U.S. H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b influenza virus recently found in samples associated with the ongoing HPAI outbreak in poultry and wild birds, and the recent H5N1 event in dairy cattle. APHIS has also offered virus samples to interested researchers to facilitate epidemiological study. Increasing our understanding of this disease and how it spreads is critical to stopping it. This is why APHIS is urging dairy cattle producers and those who work in or with the industry to share epidemiological information from affected farms, even if they are not planning to move cattle interstate. APHIS further urges producer participation in public health assessments to continue to confirm worker safety and monitor for any potential changes in the virus that could impact transmissibility.

In addition, our partners in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration released an update on the ongoing work to ensure continued effectiveness of the federal-state milk safety system. It is important to emphasize that, based on the information and research available to us at this time, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and USDA believe that our commercial milk supply is safe because of both the pasteurization process and the required diversion or destruction of milk from sick cows. Pasteurization has continuously proven to inactivate bacteria and viruses in milk. The FDA and USDA continue to work closely to collect and evaluate additional data and information specific to avian influenza in dairy cattle and to support state counterparts as this emerging disease in dairy cattle is managed.

As USDA continues to take steps to protect the health of livestock, the Department continues to work closely with federal partners at the CDC on protecting the health of people and FDA on protecting the safety of the food supply. The U.S. government is committed to addressing this situation with urgency.

To learn more about USDA’s response to HPAI in dairy cattle, visit www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/livestock .

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Are you traveling or living outside the U.S.? STEP is a free service that sends you emails with updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. If there’s an emergency where you are, it helps us contact you with instructions on what to do.

Why join STEP?

• Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
• Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
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What kind of messages does STEP send? Currently, STEP sends emails only. STEP can send you several types of information:

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The Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale classifies tornadoes into the following categories:

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A vigorous low pressure system moving through Nebraska brought the necessary ingredients together for a severe weather outbreak across the region. In the mid levels of the atmosphere (15,000-20,000 ft above the ground), strong winds and cold temperatures overspread a warm, moist air mass streaming north from the Gulf of Mexico to create the necessary instability and vertical wind shear for severe thunderstorm development. The supercells that produced the tornadoes across eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa developed along a Pacific front that extended south from an area of low pressure that moved from central into northeast Nebraska during the day.

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The National Weather Service says six EF-2 tornadoes swept through Iowa Friday night

Multiple ''large and extremely dangerous" tornadoes touched down across western and central Iowa Friday, April 26, including near Pleasant Hill on the eastern side of the city, according to the National Weather Service.

The town of Minden suffered significant damage, according to state officials. But no fatalities have been reported.

The storms were part of a strong system that swept eastward across the state Friday, bringing heavy rain and large hail as tornado watches and warnings were issued county by county.

Showers and storms are likely again on Sunday, the National Weather Service says, particularly by mid to late afternoon and into the evening.

The National Weather Service has also released preliminary information for nine of Friday's tornadoes.

Six of the nine National Weather Service-confirmed tornadoes have been classified as EF-2. A pair of EF-2 tornadoes traveled parallel to each other near Afton, while the weakest and shortest-lived tornado was confirmed near Maffit in Madison County and classified at EF-0.

The National Weather Service has not yet categorized the Minden tornado that destroyed the small western Iowa town on Friday. Additional surveys are forthcoming and more paths may be discovered, according to the NWS.

2:30 p.m.: Minden, Iowa man dies from injuries following tornado

A man injured during a  tornado that touched down in Minden, Iowa  has died, Pottawattamie County Emergency Management officials confirmed Sunday.

The Minden resident was found after the tornado hit and was taken to a local hospital Friday, April 26. He was later transported to a trauma center in Omaha. He passed away in the overnight hours Saturday, according to Pottawattamie emergency management director Doug Reed.

Officials declined to release further identification information about the man.

Three Pottawattamie County residents were injured on Friday night, according to Reed. They were treated and released.

Since then, three more have suffered minor injuries during clean-up and recovery, including one responder and two community members.

More: Minden, Iowa man dies from injuries sustained in tornado

1 p.m.: Storms with wind, hail possible for Sunday afternoon

A Sunday afternoon storm system has a chance chance of producing a few tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service.

Officials are unsure exactly when the severe weather will hit, as cloud cover and showers could limit intensity.

The highest chance for severe storms is between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. with the potential for hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter and damaging wind gusts up to 60 MPH.

Much of Iowa faces a "marginal risk" of severe weather, with southern Iowa at a "slight risk."

In the case of severe weather, officials encourage residents to seek shelter in a building or car.

The NWS suggests staying aware of weather warnings through tools like the NOAA Weather Radio, the mobile app and through TV and/or radio.

More: Pleasant Hill tornado classified as an EF-2 with max wind speeds of 125 MPH

12:30 p.m.: Gov. Reynolds visits residents impacted by tornado in Minden

Gov. Kim Reynolds traveled Saturday to Minden in the aftermath of an April 26 tornado that devastated the town of about 600 people.

In a Twitter post, Reynolds posted pictures of her Saturday visit talking to residents and city officials.

"The people of Iowa are coming together, just like we always do, to help one another," Reynolds wrote. "With the possibility of more storms today, please be safe and look out for your neighbors."

Minden, a small town in Pottawattamie County,  suffered significant damage  Friday night as severe storms and several tornadoes touched down across the state. The town reported damage to homes, cars and trees .

Four injuries had been reported by Saturday afternoon, according to a news release from Pottawattamie County emergency management. One person remains hospitalized in stable condition, as reported Saturday.

Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Pottawattamie County in response, which activated the  Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program  and the  Disaster Case Advocacy Program .

The Disaster Case Advocacy program provides up to $5,000 in grants for households with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level.

10:30 a.m., Sunday, April 28: NWS results show Pleasant Hill tornado reached 125 miles per hour

A tornado that touched down just before 9 p.m. west of Pleasant Hill Friday, April 26 has been confirmed as an EF-2 by the National Weather Service in Des Moines.

Friday's tornado reached a peak wind speed of 125 MPH, measuring about 300 yards wide. It swept across town for about seven miles for roughly 12 minutes, injuring at least one and damaging nearly 20 homes.

The tornado first touched down in southeast Des Moines near Indianola Avenue around 8:50 p.m., traveling for 7.2 miles past James W. Cownie Park and northeast through Pleasant Hill, toppling trees and power lines along the way.

According to the NWS, there have been zero deaths recorded due to the tornado.

10:30 a.m.: Three tornadoes batter Union County, NWS survey shows

Three tornados ripped through Union County on April 26, barrelling through Creston and near Afton, each exceeding wind speeds of 120 miles per hour.

The first Union County tornado is believed to have touched down at roughly 6:52 p.m. outside Creston. The EF-2 tornado traveled 6.8 miles to the northeast, with a width of 350 yards and an estimated peak wind speed of 125 MPH.

The first of two EF-2 tornadoes that traveled near Afton touched down at roughly 7:26 p.m. on April 26, traveling nearly 11 miles and lasting 18 minutes. The National Weather Service believes the tornado reached a maximum wind speed of 130 MPH and was 150 yards wide.

A second EF-2 tornado popped up a few minutes after the first expired, touching the ground almost in the same spot at 7:53 p.m. The NWS believes this tornado traveled 11.6 miles, lasting 12 minutes, with a maximum wind speed of 125 MPH and a width of 150 yards.

10:30 a.m.: Two EF-2 tornadoes confirmed in Ringgold County

Ringgold County is recovering from destruction as well after a tornado touched down in Tingley and another near Mount Ayr.

An EF-1 tornado traveled nearly 27 outside Mount Ayr and reached speeds of about 110 mph. The twister touched down at 7:27 p.m. and lasted until 8:08 p.m. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

An EF-2 tornado ripped through Tingley on April 26, traveling about 10 miles starting around 8:19 p.m. At its peak, it reached 125 MPH, destroying homes and the Tingley Community Center.

No injuries or deaths were reported.

10:30 a.m. Osceola tornado produced high wind speeds

An EF-2 tornado was confirmed to have torn through Osecola on April 26, producing some of the strongest confirmed wind speeds. The twister was just 75 yards in width but is believed to have reached a speed of 135 MPH during its 12-minute, nearly seven-mile jaunt through the county.

The NWS indicates the tornado first touched down west of Interstate 35 before heading northeast, hopping the interstate and through the heart of downtown Osecola. The tornado eventually dissipated a few miles northeast of town.

10:30 a.m.: Madison, Jasper counties also experience confirmed tornadoes

An EF-0 tornado touched down around 8:23 p.m. on April 26 in Maffit in Madison County and reached peak wind speeds of 80 mph. The tornado traveled just 1.7 miles, lasting three minutes with a width of 30 yards.

An EF-1 tornado touched down around 9:42 p.m. in Monroe, Jasper County, and reached 105 MPH, traveling just two miles and 50 yards wide. No injuries or deaths resulted from these twisters.

2 p.m., Saturday, April 27: NWS issues tornado watch for several southern Iowa counties

The Des Moines National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for several southern Iowa counties that will be in effect until 9 p.m. Saturday.

The tornado watch includes the towns of Creston, Centerville, Indianola, Ottumwa, Centerville, and Oskaloosa, among others. The storm system, according to the National Weather Service, is capable of producing a few tornadoes and wind gusts up to 75 MPH. The system could also produce hail up to two inches in diameter.

1:30 p.m.: Polk County officials issue statement on tornado impact

The Polk County Emergency Management Agency has been out much of Saturday assessing the damage and coordinating resources for residents in need.

Polk County officials are organizing a call for volunteer help in Pleasant Hill. Authorities say monetary donations can be sent to the Polk County and Greater Des Moines Community Foundation disaster recovery fund .

“We are saddened by the widespread damage caused by the tornadoes and storms in Pleasant Hill and across Polk County.” Polk County Board Chair Angela Connolly said in a press release. “Our primary focus right now is on ensuring the safety and well-being of all our residents. We are working closely with local first responders, utility crews, and volunteer organizations to provide assistance and support to those impacted by this disaster."

1 p.m.: National Weather Service provides statewide damage update

Brooke Hagenhoff, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, said there were at least 10 tornados that swept through central Iowa on April 26. 

Several other tornadoes reportedly touched down in western Iowa near Council Bluffs and the Nebraska border.

Compared to the storm system the state endured earlier in the month , Hagenhoff said Friday night’s storm system was much more robust. 

Chris Franks, a meteorologist for the NWS based in Nebraska, said roughly three tornadoes originated in Omaha and traveled east across Iowa’s border. 

“Right now, it's pretty good to estimate that there tornadoes that came from Nebraska, or very near the Iowa Nebraska line, and then and then crossed into Iowa,” Franks said. “I will caveat that the damage surveys are still on very much ongoing, in fact, there's a lot of a lot of damage to survey.”

11:45 a.m.: Tornado destroys homes, power lines in Pleasant Hill

A tornado touched down just west of Pleasant Hill around 9 p.m. Friday, April 26, sweeping across town, injuring one and damaging nearly 20 homes.

Pleasant Hill Fire Department Chief Jamie Xayavong told reporters at an 11 a.m. news conference Saturday that the injury was not life-threatening, though the 18 damaged homes were no longer inhabitable.

The tornado is believed to have touched down near the intersection of Parkridge Avenue and E Oakwood Drive and headed east, toppling several trees and power lines along the way.

Xayavong said storm damage has been reported as far east as NE 80th Street.

The fire chief did not know how strong the tornado was, though it left several other homes with moderate or minor damage. She indicated that more damage reports could come in as recovery continues.

None of the misplaced residents needed emergency shelter, Xayavong said.

More: Trees downed, homes damaged in Pleasant Hill after tornadoes sweep through area.

11:15 a.m.: Reports of Friday night tornado in Ringgold County in southwest Iowa

A tornado swept through the small southwestern Iowa towns of Tingley and Redding on Friday, April 26, according to Melissa Stark with Ringgold County Emergency Management. Officials believe the tornado developed around 8 p.m. Friday, traveling the entire length of the county and leaving significant damage in its wake.

Stark said residents had little warning, noting that the sirens weren’t triggered until the tornado had developed.

The storm system decimated the Tingley Community Center and devastated the city park.

No injuries have been reported.

11 a.m.: Creston recovering from storm damage

U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn said he was headed to Creston to meet with the Union County Sheriff to tour the community and offer his support.

The storm damaged portions of the Homestead Assisted Living's roof in the northwest part of town. Several windows and the main entrance also suffered damage. A private home in Creston was also damaged in the storm.

“Iowa just emerged from a horrible event that occurred many of our communities last night. In fact, we're headed down to Union County next to help take care of Creston and the communities that were impacted by horrible storms and tornadoes that ravaged the state of Iowa,” he said at a campaign event Saturday morning. “Our prayers not only are with Minden but those communities in Nebraska where we've flown flight operations out of. They're just decimated. And so this morning as we think about what we need to do, it should always be about how do we help those communities in need.”

U.S. Highway 34 between Creston and Afton was closed Friday night due because debris blocked the road, according to Iowa 511.

11 a.m.: Where is Minden, Iowa?

Minden is located on the western side of Iowa. It’s about a 30-mile drive from Omaha, Nebraska, depending on the route taken, according to Google Maps. The town was settled in 1875 by German immigrants,  according to Travel Iowa .

The town of about 600  faced damage to homes, cars and trees after a tornado swept through Friday, April 26. Pottawattamie County officials confirmed four injuries as of Saturday morning,  according to KETV .

Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for the county in response, which activated the  Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program  and the  Disaster Case Advocacy Program .

More: Where is Minden, Iowa? What we know on the Iowa tornado that caused significant destruction

10:45 a.m.: Tiny Minden, Iowa, riddled with debris after tornado smashes through town Friday

Many houses, cars, and trees in Minden have been destroyed after a tornado devastated the southwestern Iowa town of roughly 600 people Friday evening, April 26.

Access to the town was shut off Saturday because of the destruction.

Drivers trying to pass through Minden Saturday morning were being redirected as workers tried to clean up wholesale debris left behind.

For Austin Ehlers, a firefighter in Persia, a city just about 15 minutes away from Minden, the tornado demolished his grandfather’s home.

“He lives just outside of Minden, right in the path where the tornado took,” Ehlers said. “After we cleared everything in Persia, we hoped in the trucks and went to Minden and helped. I found out my grandpa’s house was completely gone, and he’s basically lost everything.”

More: Tiny Minden, Iowa, riddled with debris after tornado smashes through town Friday

10:30 a.m.: Are more tornadoes headed for Iowa? The National Weather Service forecast

Is another round of tornadoes heading to Iowa?

One day after bands of tornadoes swept through western and central Iowa Friday, the National Weather Service is warning of the possibility of strong to severe storms Saturday afternoon through the evening.

"All severe weather hazards are possible, but hail and damaging winds are the primary threats," the National Weather Service in Des Moines reported.

More: Could more tornadoes be headed to Iowa? The National Weather Service forecast

Showers and storms continue into Sunday, along with the potential for more strong to severe storms Sunday afternoon and evening, the NWS said.

"The extent of the threat and most likely hazards remains uncertain at this time," it posted.

The NWS warned that spotter activation may be needed later Saturday and Sunday.

Chances for showers and storms return Tuesday into Tuesday night, and again late in the week. The severe weather threat is uncertain and will be evaluated in the coming days.

Preparing for a storm

With the potential for more severe weather, it's good to be prepared. Make sure you have a plan in place. Here are five things you should know to be prepared for a weather emergency .

6:15 a.m.: At least 10 tornadoes hit central Iowa, National Weather Service says

The National Weather Service in Des Moines posted early Saturday morning that preliminary reports indicate at least 10 tornadoes struck central Iowa in the April 26 storm front, based on initial damage information.

Another band of tornadoes swept across Nebraska and western Iowa.

Damage to trees and homes were reported from Crawford to Union to Ringgold up to Polk and Jasper counties, the office said. At least one injury was reported.

In Nebraska and western Iowa, a swath of damage stretched from just northeast of Lincoln, Nebraska, through the Waterloo and Elkhorn areas, and all the way to near Soldier, Iowa, in eastern Monona county. NWS Omaha issued 42 tornado warnings during the outbreak, it reported .

Two NWS teams from the Des Moines office will survey damaged areas on Saturday. The office will begin to post survey results Saturday, but it will likely take days to rate the severity and path of all the touchdowns.

11:15 p.m.: Minden, Iowa, appears to be hardest hit by Friday's system; storms may continue through the weekend

Friday’s system ushered strong storms across the state, leaving widespread debris and devastation in their wake.

The small town of Minden in northcentral Pottawattamie County appears to have suffered some of the most significant damage, according to state officials and storm chasers, who posted photos and videos of leveled houses and businesses.

As of about 11 p.m. Friday night, no fatalities had been reported in the town, which is 90 minutes west of Des Moines on I-80.

In response to the severe weather, Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Pottawattamie County. The proclamation initiates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy Program.

Saturday could see more scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon, a few of which could be serve and bring heavy rain. Those storms may continue through Sunday morning.

Staying weather aware will be important for the rest of the weekend. Look out for wireless emergency alerts on your smartphone or stay up to date on forecasts at weather.gov/desmoines.

A few other tips for staying safe:

• Get in: If you are outside, get inside. If you're already inside, get as far into the middle of the building as possible.
• Get down: Get underground if possible. If you can't, go to the lowest floor possible.
• Cover up: Flying and falling debris are a storm's number one danger. Use pillows, blankets, coats, helmets to cover up and protect your head and body from flying debris.

11 p.m.: Severe thunderstorm 'capable of producing a tornado' spotted over Knapp Center and Drake Stadium

A severe thunderstorm 'capable of producing a tornado' was seen over Drake Stadium and the Knapp Center, according to the National Weather Service. The system was moving northeast at 45 mph.

A tornado warning was issued for central Polk County until 11:45 p.m.

"Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter," said the NWS. "Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows and vehicles will occur."

Drake University is hosting the Drake Relays. No information on delays or cancelations for Saturday's events had been announced by 11:15 p.m. Friday.,

10:10 p.m.: Metro under tornado watch until midnight; one tornado warning lingers

After an evening of strong storms that brought multiple “large and dangerous” tornadoes, heavy rain and sizable hail, most of the system has dissipated.

The last tornado warning issued in the area was in northeast Jasper County and expired at 10:30 p.m.

Metro counties Polk, Warren, Madison and Jasper — as well as many southcentral counties — are still under a watch until midnight.

Full list of counties remaining under a tornado watch until midnight:

10 p.m.: Cross-streets completely blocked in Pleasant Hill

Several cross-streets are completely blocked by emergency crews and tree debris south of the Pleasant Hill Hy-Vee. Lots of traffic seem to be trying to leave the surrounding neighborhoods, which are without power.

9:45 p.m.: 15,000 MidAmerican customers without power

There are about 15,000 MidAmerican Energy customers without power, according to the utility.

At least 11,843 east-side residents were without power, according to MidAmerican.

9:35 p.m.: Highway 34 closed between Creston and Afton; reunification center set up at local Walmart

U.S. Highway 34 between Creston and Afton closed Friday night due to debris blocking the road, according to Iowa 511.

A command center for ambulances and family reunification was set up at Walmart on Laurel St., according to the Creston Police Department. No fatalities or injuries have been confirmed as of about 9:30 p.m. in Creston, according to the police department. 

9:30 p.m.: Zach Bryan concert will go on; 'Severe weather protocols' being followed

Zach Bryan's Quittin' Time Tour will go on as scheduled, according to the Iowa Events Center.

"We are following our established severe weather protocols while we are in a tornado warning," said Adam Flack, director of marketing for the arena. "The show will go on and we have closed the concourse until the warnings expire. Everyone is encouraged to stay inside the seating bowl away from entrances and glass."

9 p.m.: 'Large and extremely dangerous' tornado near Pleasant Hill

The National Weather Service has confirmed a "large and extremely dangerous tornado" over Pleasant Hill. It is moving northeast at about 35 mph.

Those in the area are in "a life-threatening situation," NWS said. "Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles is likely and complete destruction is possible."

The tornado warning issued for Southeastern Polk and Western Jasper Counties is extended until 9:30 p.m.

KCCI reported that the Pleasant Hill tornado was "lofting" debris into the air.

The system is "one of the most intense rotational signatures we've seen today," said meteorologist Jason Sydejko.

At Southeast Polk Jr. High School, a production of "Annie Jr." was stopped and the audience was ushered to shelter in the hallway.

8:50 p.m.: Tornado warnings issued for eight Iowa counties

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued tornado warnings until 9:30 p.m. for the following counties:

• Southeastern Union County
• Northeastern Ringgold County
• Northeastern/west central Clarke County
• Northwestern Lucas County
• Northwestern/west central Marion County
• Northeastern/southeastern Warren County
• Southeastern Polk County
• Western Jasper County

8:33 p.m.: 'Tornadic super cells' headed into Des Moines; Take shelter

Multiple tornadic super cells are making their way into the metro, according to KCCI.

Sirens have been heard across the metro area.

Urbandale and Clive residents should be in their safe spaces. Metro residents should also get to basements or below ground level.

• Get in: If you are outside, get inside.  If you're already inside, get as far into the middle of the building as possible.
• Get down: Get underground if possible. If you can't, go to the lowest floor possible.
• Cover up: Flying and falling debris are a storm's number one danger.  Use pillows, blankets, coats, helmets to cover up and protect your head and body from flying debris.
• Look out for wireless emergency alerts on your smartphone or stay up to date on forecasts at  weather.gov/desmoines .

At 8:23 p.m., a confirmed tornado was located near Cumming, or near West Des Moines, moving northeast at 25 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

8:30 p.m.: Gov. Reynolds issues disaster proclamation for Pottawattamie County, where Minden was hit hard

In response to the severe weather Friday night, Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Pottawattamie County. The proclamation initiates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy Program.

Minden, which was hit hard by a tornado earlier in the evening, sits in northern section of the county.

From a news release:

The Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program provides grants of up to $5,000 for households with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Grants are available for home or car repairs, replacement of clothing or food, and temporary housing expenses. Original receipts are required for those seeking reimbursement for actual expenses related to storm recovery. The grant application and instructions are available on the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management website at homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/assistance. Potential applicants have 45 days from the date of the proclamation to submit a claim.

The Disaster Case Advocacy Program addresses serious needs related to disaster-related hardship, injury, or adverse conditions. Disaster case advocates work with clients to create a disaster recovery plan and provide guidance, advice, and referrals to obtain a service or resource. There are no income eligibility requirements for this program; it closes 180 days from the date of the governor's proclamation. For information on the Disaster Case Advocacy Program, contact your local community action association or visit iowacommunityaction.org.

8:26 p.m.: Tornado warning issued for Des Moines metro

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a tornado warning for Polk, Madison, Dallas and Warren counties until 8:45 p.m.

The tornado warning includes:

Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Johnston, Clive, Altoona, Waukee, Norwalk, Pleasant Hill, Grimes, Windsor Heights, Saylorville, Granger, Jordan Creek Town Center, Merle Hay Mall, Iowa Events Center, Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines Int`l Airport, and Principal Park.

8:05 p.m.: Tornado watch extended to midnight in Polk, Story, Boone and Jasper Counties

The Tornado watch issued by the National Weather Service has been extended to midnight in 10 counties, including Polk, Jasper, Boone and Story counties. Further South, counties including Appanoose, Lucas, Marion, Monroe, Warren and Wayne are under the same watch.

The metro as well as larger population centers like Ames, Indianola, Newtown, Knoxville and Pella are now covered by the watch.

Possible threats connected to this storm system could include "a few tornados" with "a couple intense tornados possible," according to the National Weather Service. Damaging winds could gust to about 70 mph and scattered large hail, including pieces possibly measuring 2.5 inches in diameter, are also possible.

7:45 p.m.: Minden, Iowa, seems to be destroyed

Storm chasers have posted video and photos of what looks to be catastrophic damage in Minden, Iowa, located about 90 minutes west of Des Moines on I-80.

7:45 p.m.: Tornado warning issued for southern Iowa counties

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a tornado warning for southwestern Madison, central Union, western Clarke and southeastern Adair counties until 8:30 p.m.

7:45 p.m.: Tornadoes located over Creston, Mount Ayr

At 7:43 p.m., NWS confirmed a tornado located over Creston Municipal Airport moving northeast at 35 mph.

At 7:47 p.m., NWS confirmed a tornado located over Mt Ayr Municipal Airport moving northeast at 35 mph.

7:40 p.m.: Tornadoes confirmed near Afton, Redding

The National Weather Service in Des Moines confirmed a tornado located near Afton moving northeast at 30 mph.

At 7:34 p.m., another tornado was reported near Redding moving northeast at 40 mph.

7:29 p.m.: Tornado warnings issued for counties in south central Iowa

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a tornado warning for Madison, Union, Adair and Ringgold counties until 8 p.m.

At 7:16 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 5 miles northeast of Green Valley Lake State Park moving northeast at 40 mph.

At 7:21 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Irena moving northeast at 45 mph.

7:13 p.m.: Tornadoes located near Manilla, Creston, Vail

The National Weather Service in Des Moines confirmed a tornado located over Manilla moving northeast at 45 mph.

At 7:05 p.m., NWS confirmed a tornado located over Creston moving northeast at 40 mph.

At 7:07 p.m., NWS confirmed a new tornado located 5 miles south of Vail moving northeast 40 mph.

The NWS reports that the tornados are on the ground and residents should take cover.

7 p.m.: Tornado warning issued for Union, Adams and Adair counties

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a tornado warning for Union, Adams and Adair counties until 7:45 p.m. Friday.

At 6:54 p.m., the NWS confirmed a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado near Kent moving northeast at 30 mph.

6:49 p.m.: Tornado warning issued for west central Iowa, tornado located near Vail

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a tornado warning for northeastern Crawford County in west central Iowa until 7:30 p.m.

At 6:43 p.m., the NWS confirmed a "large and extremely dangerous" tornado located 5 miles southwest of Vail moving north at 30 mph.

The NWS has labeled the tornado as life-threatening and urges residents to take cover.

6:38 p.m.: 'Large and extremely dangerous' tornado located near Irwin

The National Weather Service in Des Moines confirmed a “large and extremely dangerous” tornado was located near Irwin moving northeast at 30 mph.

The NWS has labeled this a “particularly dangerous situation” and urges residents to take cover.

6:28 p.m.: Tornado warning issued for southwestern Iowa

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a tornado warning from southeastern Adams County and Taylor County until 7 p.m. Friday.

At 6:20 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 5 miles east of Braddyville moving northeast at 40 mph.

At 6:28 p.m., the thunderstorm was located near Corning Municipal Airport moving northeast at 55 mph.

The storm could produce a tornado as well as quarter-size hail.

5:15 p.m.: Tornadoes confirmed in southwest Iowa

Spotters confirmed a tornado around 5:15 p.m. about 9 miles east of Council Bluffs, The National Weather Service reported. The tornado was moving northeast at 45 mph.

A tornado touched down in another area about 7 miles southwest of Treynor, moving in the same direction.

NWS radars also confirmed a different tornado 7 miles northwest of Neola around 5:20 p.m.

3:47 p.m.: Tornado watch issued for parts of central Iowa, stop just short of Polk County

A tornado watch has been issued for parts of central Iowa until 9 p.m. Friday.

The watch picks up on the edge of an earlier tornado watch in western Iowa and extends up to the Des Moines metro area. Dallas County is included in the watch, but Polk, Story and Warren counties are not at this time.

Severe weather including a few tornadoes, large hail and strong wind gusts are possible, according to the National Weather Service in Des Moines. Isolated heavy rainfall may also occur.

12:55 p.m.: Tornado watch issued for parts of western Iowa

A tornado watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for parts of western Iowa until 7 p.m. Friday.   

Counties in the watch are at risk of seeing tornadoes, apple-sized hail and wind gusts up to 70 mph.

This is the first wave in a weekend of storms expected in Iowa . Most of the state has the potential to see severe storms, tornadoes and heavy rainfall all weekend. Storms are expected to move toward central Iowa in the evening hours Friday.

More: What's the difference between a severe weather watch and a warning?

Radar: What's the weather radar in Des Moines, central Iowa?

Here's a look at the National Weather Service's Des Moines radar loop:

Find shelter: What should you do in the case of severe weather?

Staying weather aware will be important. Look out for wireless emergency alerts on your smartphone or stay up to date on forecasts at  weather.gov/desmoines .

NWS has some  more tips for severe weather :

Russia claimed the downing of a drone flying towards Moscow

R ussian Air Defense Forces purportedly repelled a drone attack targeting Moscow this evening, November 19, reports Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.

It is claimed that the drone was allegedly intercepted in the city district of Elektrostal in the Moscow region. According to Sobyanin, it was targeted at the capital of the Russian Federation.

"At the site of the wreckage, according to preliminary data, there are no destruction or casualties. Emergency services experts are working at the scene," stated the Mayor of Moscow.

The city of Elektrostal is located approximately 60 kilometers from the Russian capital.

Stikes on Russia Federation

In 2023, the frequency of drone attacks in various regions of Russia increased, accompanied by fires and explosions. Different regions, including Moscow, have come under attack. On the night of November 19, Sobyanin reported an alleged drone interception heading towards the Russian capital.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian intelligence has cautioned residents of the Russian capital against letting their guard down, stating that the number of drone attacks is likely to escalate.

Notably, on the evening of November 10, explosions were reported near the Constructor Design Bureau of Machine Building (KBM) corporation in the Moscow region, where Kinzhals and Iskanders are manufactured.

One of the most significant attacks occurred on the night of July 30, when unidentified drones targeted the business center of the Russian capital - "Moscow City." Drones hit the so-called "government tower," housing offices of the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Ministry of Communications of the Russian Federation.

Brigadier General Sergei Baranov recently stated that Ukrainian forces are preparing for a large-scale winter attack on various regions of Russia using kamikaze drones.

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Midwest tornadoes cause severe damage in Omaha suburbs

The Associated Press

Gopala Penmetsa walks past his house after it was leveled by a tornado near Omaha, Neb., on Friday. Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Gopala Penmetsa walks past his house after it was leveled by a tornado near Omaha, Neb., on Friday.

OMAHA, Neb. — A tornado plowed through suburban Omaha, Nebraska, on Friday afternoon, damaging hundreds of homes and other structures as the twister tore for miles along farmland and into subdivisions. Injuries were reported but it wasn't yet clear if anyone was killed in the storm.

Multiple tornadoes were reported in Nebraska but the most destructive storm moved from a largely rural area into suburbs northwest of Omaha, a city of 485,000 people.

Photos on social media showed heavily damaged homes and shredded trees. Video showed homes with roofs stripped of shingles, in a rural area near Omaha. Law enforcement were blocking off roads in the area.

Hundreds of houses sustained damage in Omaha, mostly in the Elkhorn area in the western part of the city, police Lt. Neal Bonacci said.

Police and firefighters are now going door-to-door helping people who are trapped.

Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman said crews had gone to the "hardest hit area" and had a plan to search anywhere someone could be trapped.

"They're going to be putting together a strategic plan for a detailed search of the area, starting with the properties with most damage," Bossman said. "We'll be looking throughout properties in debris piles, we'll be looking in basements, trying to find any victims and make sure everybody is rescued who needs assistance."

Damaged houses are seen after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday. Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Damaged houses are seen after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday.

Omaha police Lt. Neal Bonacci said many homes were destroyed or severely damaged.

"You definitely see the path of the tornado," Bonacci said.

In one area of Elkhorn, dozens of newly built, large homes were damaged. At least six were destroyed, including one that was leveled, while others had the top half ripped off.

There were dozens of emergency vehicles in the area.

"We watched it touch down like 200 yards over there and then we took shelter," said Pat Woods, who lives in Elkhorn. "We could hear it coming through. When we came up our fence was gone and we looked to the northwest and the whole neighborhood's gone."

His wife, Kim Woods added, "The whole neighborhood just to the north of us is pretty flattened."

Dhaval Naik, who said he works with the man whose house was demolished, said three people, including a child, were in the basement when the tornado hit. They got out safely.

KETV-TV video showed one woman being removed from a demolished home on a stretcher in Blair, a city just north of Omaha.

Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said there appeared to be few serious injuries, in part because people had plenty of warning that storms were likely.

The exact link between tornadoes and climate change is hard to draw. Here's why

"We not upon by a sudden storm," Schmaderer said. "People had warnings of this and that saved lives."

The tornado warning was issued in the Omaha area on Friday afternoon just as children were due to be released from school. Many schools had students shelter in place until the storm passed. Hours later, buses were still transporting students home.

Another tornado hit an area on the eastern edge of Omaha, passing directly through parts of Eppley Airfield, the city's airport. Officials closed the airport to aircraft operations to access damage but then reopened the facility, Omaha Airport Authority Chief Strategy Officer Steve McCoy said.

Severe weather damage to Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Neb., can be seen from the Lewis and Clark Monument in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Friday Anna Reed/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Severe weather damage to Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Neb., can be seen from the Lewis and Clark Monument in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Friday

The passenger terminal wasn't hit by the tornado but people rushed to storm shelters until the twister passed, McCoy said.

Flight delays are expected Friday evening.

After passing through the airport, the tornado crossed the Missouri River and into Iowa, north of Council Bluffs.

Nebraska Emergency Management Agency spokesperson Katrina Sperl said damage is just now being reported. Taylor Wilson, a spokesperson for the University of Nebraska Medical Center, said they hadn't seen any injuries yet.

Before the tornado hit the Omaha area, three workers in an industrial plant were injured Friday afternoon when a tornado struck an industrial plant in Lancaster County, sheriff's officials said in an update on the damage.

The building just northeast of the state capital of Lincoln had collapsed with about 70 employees inside and several people trapped, sheriff's officials said. Everyone was evacuated, and three people had injuries that were considered not life-threatening, authorities said.

Sheriff's officials say they also had reports of a tipped-over train near Waverly, also in Lancaster County.

Two people who were injured when the tornado passed through Lancaster County were being treated at the trauma center at Bryan Medical Center West Campus in Lincoln, the facility said in a news release. It said the patients were in triage and no details were released on their condition.

The Omaha Public Power District reported that nearly 10,000 customers were without power in the Omaha area.

Daniel Fienhold, manager of the Pink Poodle Steakhouse in Crescent, Iowa, said he was outside watching the weather with his daughter and restaurant employees. He said "it looked like a pretty big tornado was forming" northeast of town.

"It started raining, and then it started hailing, and then all the clouds started to kind of swirl and come together, and as soon as the wind started to pick up, that's when I headed for the basement, but we never saw it," Fienhold said.

The Weather Service also issued tornado watches across parts of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. And forecasters warned that large hail and damaging wind gusts were possible.