Des Moines, Iowa — Two rounds of thunderstorms could bring hail and strong winds to parts of central Iowa through Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, the first round of storms may develop late Thursday night and continue into early Friday morning across portions of the state. Some storms during this initial period could become strong, with large hail identified as the primary hazard.
Forecasters say this first round may move into the region around 11 p.m. Thursday and continue through roughly 7 a.m. Friday, potentially affecting communities along major travel routes including Interstate 35 and Interstate 80 near the Des Moines metro area. While tornadoes are considered unlikely with this round, isolated damaging wind gusts may still occur.
A second period of storm activity is expected to develop Friday afternoon and evening, when conditions could support scattered severe thunderstorms across central and southern Iowa. Meteorologists say this later round may produce large hail and damaging wind gusts, and a few tornadoes may also be possible if storms intensify.
The strongest storms Friday could develop between about 3 p.m. and 11 p.m., potentially affecting commuters traveling along Interstate 80, Interstate 35, and Interstate 235 in and around the Des Moines metropolitan area.
Heavy rainfall and lightning may also accompany stronger storms, briefly reducing visibility for drivers and creating localized travel hazards during both storm windows.
Forecasters emphasize that storm coverage may remain scattered, meaning not every location will experience severe weather. However, conditions across parts of Iowa remain favorable for isolated stronger storms capable of producing damaging weather.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware through Friday and have multiple ways to receive alerts if warnings are issued overnight or during the evening commute.
