Des Moines, Iowa – Drivers across southern Iowa could encounter sudden heavy rain and ponding on roads through mid evening Wednesday as scattered thunderstorms cross the region, with gusty winds and hail possible in the stronger cells.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected from southwest into southern Iowa through mid evening. The overall severe weather risk remains low, but stronger storms could produce gusty winds and hail. A few funnel clouds are also possible.
Locally heavy rainfall could create ponding in some locations, making low-lying roads and poorly drained intersections a concern during the evening drive. Motorists should slow down when visibility drops, leave additional stopping distance and never drive through water covering a roadway.
Central and northwest Iowa have a lower chance of scattered showers or thunderstorms Wednesday evening. The Weather Service expects dry conditions to take hold overnight and continue through much of Thursday.
Residents across southern Iowa should keep weather alerts enabled as storms move through, particularly where outdoor activities are underway. Seek shelter indoors if thunder is heard, and move vehicles under cover when possible if hail approaches.
Rain and thunderstorm chances are expected to return Thursday evening. Additional alerts could follow if any storms strengthen beyond current expectations.
