Des Moines, Iowa – Severe thunderstorms are pounding Central and Southwest Iowa early Wednesday, threatening widespread power outages and dangerous travel on major roadways through 7 a.m. Drivers and residents in Des Moines and surrounding counties should prepare for intense winds, large hail, and possible flash flooding as storm warnings remain active overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha and the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, multiple Severe Thunderstorm Watches have been issued for a wide stretch of Iowa, including Polk, Dallas, Marion, and Warren counties, as well as Otoe County in Southeast Nebraska. The current advisories extend until 7 a.m. for Central Iowa and until 4 a.m. for areas along the Nebraska-Iowa border, including Nebraska City, Glenwood, and Red Oak.
Storms are expected to impact key highways such as I-35, I-80, and U.S. Route 34, with the heaviest activity centered around Des Moines, Clarinda, Glenwood, and Shenandoah. Downed trees, scattered power outages, and flash flooding in low-lying areas are likely as severe cells sweep through. Emergency officials urge residents to avoid travel, secure outdoor items, and keep mobile devices charged in case of outages.
This severe weather comes as the region faces its most intense overnight storm event of the summer. Residents should monitor local alerts, as additional warnings and advisories are possible through sunrise.
Warnings remain in effect for Central and Southwest Iowa through early Wednesday morning. Check back for updates as conditions develop.
