Des Moines, Iowa – Severe thunderstorms are racing across central and eastern Iowa this morning, putting millions at risk for damaging winds, hail, and power outages through 10 a.m. Saturday. Travel may be hazardous in cities including Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and Ames as downed trees and scattered debris are reported along major highways.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for 34 counties—including Polk, Linn, Black Hawk, and Muscatine—until 10 a.m. CDT. Wind gusts up to 70 mph, quarter-size hail, and frequent lightning are likely. The watch covers primary travel corridors such as I-35, I-80, and US-63.
Power outages have already been reported in parts of Boone and Jasper counties, with emergency crews responding to downed power lines in Marion and Webster. Residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel, secure outdoor items, and remain indoors until the storms clear. Schools and businesses in affected counties may see delayed openings or closures.
This is the largest severe thunderstorm watch for Iowa this July, with impacts stretching from Lucas to Black Hawk counties. Similar storms last month knocked out power to thousands across the region.
Threats will persist until late morning, with additional warnings possible as storms track east. Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio and local authorities for further updates.
