Des Moines, Iowa – Large hail and damaging winds may slam parts of Iowa Tuesday afternoon as isolated severe storms build across the region, with the greatest risk between 2 and 11 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.
Several rounds of thunderstorms are expected through the evening, especially across central and southern Iowa, with primary hazards including wind gusts over 60 mph and quarter-sized hail. According to the NWS in Des Moines, storms may also produce locally heavy rainfall, reducing visibility and creating slick roads during the evening commute.
Cities including Des Moines, Ames, Ottumwa, and Council Bluffs are under a Level 1 (Marginal Risk) threat zone, meaning a few storms could briefly turn severe. While widespread flooding isn’t expected, ponding on roads is possible, especially in low-lying or poorly drained areas.
The stormy pattern isn’t limited to Tuesday. Off-and-on showers and thunderstorms are expected through Thursday across much of Iowa. Highs will climb into the mid to upper 70s Tuesday and Wednesday before cooling slightly into the 60s and low 70s Thursday. Overnight lows will hover in the mid-40s to low 50s.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and avoid outdoor plans during peak storm hours. More updates are expected if threats increase.
