Des Moines, Iowa – Drivers and residents across central Iowa have a narrowing window to prepare as severe storms capable of producing tornadoes move in after 4 p.m. today.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, numerous severe thunderstorms are expected to develop late this afternoon and continue into tonight, with the highest risk centered on central to northeastern Iowa. The primary threats include large hail, damaging wind gusts, and isolated tornadoes as storms track northeast at around 35 mph.
Des Moines, Ames, and Marshalltown sit in a level 3 risk zone, indicating a higher likelihood of widespread severe weather. Along Interstate 35 and Interstate 80, rapidly changing conditions could reduce visibility below one mile and create hazardous driving during the evening commute. Storms are expected to intensify as they push toward Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, and into eastern Iowa through the evening hours.
Emergency managers urge residents to have multiple ways to receive warnings and to identify safe shelter locations now. Outdoor plans should be adjusted, and loose items secured ahead of storm arrival.
This system will continue pushing east into the night, with additional warnings likely as storms evolve and intensify across the state.
