Des Moines, Iowa – Heavy rain and multiple rounds of thunderstorms are expected to sweep across Iowa beginning this evening, raising concerns for flash flooding, damaging winds and a renewed threat for isolated severe storms through Friday. Some communities could receive 1 to 3 inches of rainfall by Friday, with locally higher amounts possible.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, thunderstorms will spread from west to east across the state tonight, producing widespread rainfall through Friday morning. Rainfall rates may exceed 1 inch per hour, increasing the risk of flash flooding, especially in urban areas and locations with poor drainage. Smaller rivers and streams could also rise quickly as repeated storms move through.
Western Iowa faces a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe thunderstorms this evening, with the greatest threat occurring between 8 p.m. Thursday and 2 a.m. Friday. The primary hazard will be damaging wind gusts, although heavy rainfall will accompany many storms.
The severe weather threat shifts into southeast Iowa Friday afternoon and evening, where another Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) is in place. Forecasters say a few storms could produce damaging winds, heavy rainfall and even a brief tornado before activity diminishes Friday night.
Communities including Des Moines, Ames, Fort Dodge, Mason City, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Ottumwa, Burlington and the surrounding region should monitor forecasts closely. Roads may become water-covered during periods of intense rainfall, and isolated power outages are possible where stronger storms develop.
Residents should avoid driving through flooded roadways, secure outdoor items ahead of tonight’s storms and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings overnight. Additional Flood Watches, Flash Flood Warnings or Severe Thunderstorm Warnings may be issued as storms organize across Iowa through Friday.
