Cedar Rapids, Iowa – Commuters from Cedar Rapids to Dubuque faced a wet start Thursday as scattered showers and storms swept through eastern Iowa, bringing bursts of heavy rain, small hail, and wind gusts up to 30 mph.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities, the strongest storm cells were concentrated northwest of Cedar Rapids, with the highest coverage expected in areas stretching toward Waterloo and Dubuque. Rain and isolated thunderstorms may linger until 8 a.m., impacting early travel on major routes including U.S. Highway 151 and I-380.
Residents in Iowa City, Waterloo, and Dubuque should remain alert for slick roads and minor flooding, especially in low-lying spots. The morning rush may see brief delays as wind gusts and pockets of small hail pass through. Local emergency management recommends drivers reduce speed, allow extra travel time, and keep headlights on during heavy downpours.
While the storms are expected to exit by mid-morning, isolated cells could develop south toward Burlington. Stay tuned for updates as additional advisories remain possible through late morning.
