Des Moines, Iowa – Tornado watches are in effect across large portions of Iowa Monday evening, with residents from Emmetsburg to Des Moines urged to take shelter as storms capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and dangerous tornadoes sweep through the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, Tornado Watch 180 remains active for Emmet and Palo Alto counties, including the cities of Estherville and Emmetsburg, until 8 p.m. CDT. Meanwhile, a broader Tornado Watch 181 covers 15 counties in north-central and central Iowa, including Fort Dodge, Mason City, and Clarion, and remains in effect until 11 p.m. CDT. A third Tornado Watch 183 stretches across 22 counties, including Polk, Story, and Dallas counties, remaining active until midnight.
Primary threats include a few intense tornadoes, hail up to 3 inches in diameter, and wind gusts reaching 80 mph. Cities along I-35 and U.S. Highway 20 are at heightened risk for dangerous travel conditions. Residents should monitor weather alerts closely, seek shelter in sturdy structures, and avoid driving through severe storms.
This is one of the most significant severe weather events of the spring season so far for Iowa. Tornado watches are expected to remain in effect until early Tuesday morning, with additional warnings possible as storms continue moving east.
