For the first time in modern history, Iowa's top elected official will be speaking to the state during a night-time address.

According to a press release from her office, Gov. Kim Reynolds plans to speak to the state for about 10 minutes at 6:05 PM Monday. According to the information, Reynolds will give a live address to Iowans on COVID-19 and the need for everyone to practice safe mitigation efforts. Additionally, the Governor will be announcing new steps to fight the virus in order to protect lives, livelihoods, hospital resources and health care workers.

Reynolds is speaking to Iowans on a day when the state broke several new records. Figures released by the Iowa Department of Public Health Monday morning showed the number of virus-related hospitalizations (1,392), patients who are being treated for COVID-19 in intensive care units (271), the number of patients on ventilators (123), and the number of patients admitted in the last 24 hours (243) reached all-time highs.

State health officials reported 2,335 additional coronavirus cases between 10 AM Sunday and 10 AM Monday, along with six more deaths. According to Iowa's COVID-19 dashboard, the state now has 187,020 total cases and 1,991 deaths.

As of 10 AM Monday, there were 78,846 active positive COVID-19 cases in Iowa. The state positivity rate during the past 24 hours was reported to be at 43 percent.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

20 Words and Phrases That Are So 2020

More From Q98.5