Des Moines, Iowa – Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging winds, and very large hail are expected to develop across Iowa after 4 p.m. Monday, threatening evening commutes and outdoor activities.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Level 4 (out of 5) severe weather risk is in place for northern Iowa, mainly north of US-20, with a conditional Level 3 risk covering much of the rest of the state. The strongest storms are most likely between 4 p.m. and midnight, moving east-northeast at over 50 mph.
Cities including Mason City, Decorah, and Charles City sit squarely in the high-risk zone, while Des Moines, Ames, and Cedar Rapids face a moderate threat. The primary hazards include strong tornadoes, wind gusts over 70 mph, and hail larger than golf balls. Residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive warnings and to seek sturdy shelter immediately if alerts are issued.
Those with outdoor plans today should reconsider, as storms could rapidly intensify with little warning. Even areas that miss storms will experience gusty non-thunderstorm winds up to 45 mph, especially across southern Iowa.
Severe weather warnings may continue overnight. Stay tuned for updates as additional advisories could be issued through the evening.
