Des Moines, Iowa – Strong winds and hail may rattle parts of northern Iowa by Wednesday evening as several rounds of thunderstorms push through the region into the overnight hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, isolated severe storms are possible beginning late Wednesday afternoon and continuing through the night, with the highest risk focused on northern counties such as Mason City, Decorah, and Fort Dodge. Storms are expected to move east-southeast at 20 to 30 mph. Heavy rainfall may also lead to localized ponding, particularly in low-lying or urban areas.
Primary threats include strong wind gusts, hail, and heavy downpours. Cities like Waterloo, Ames, and Cedar Rapids should remain weather-aware into the evening, especially during commutes and outdoor events. The risk is ranked at level 1 out of 5, meaning severe storms are possible but isolated.
Residents are urged to monitor local alerts, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and shelter indoors if storms approach. This system could be the first notable severe weather outbreak in several weeks across central and northern Iowa.
Storm chances taper off by early Thursday, but additional advisories may be issued if conditions change.
