Des Moines, Iowa – Storms capable of producing tornadoes could disrupt travel and evening plans across much of Iowa before 10 p.m. Tuesday, with key interstates like I-80 and I-35 at risk for sudden shutdowns due to rotating storms.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 109 remains in effect until 10 p.m. CDT, covering 42 counties from Allamakee and Dubuque in the northeast to Polk, Dallas, and Madison counties in central Iowa. Conditions support isolated tornadoes, wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, and large hail.
Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Davenport sit in the highest-impact zone during the evening commute. Drivers along I-380 and I-80 could encounter rapidly changing visibility and debris on roadways. In Black Hawk and Linn counties, emergency managers warn that scattered power outages are possible if storms intensify.
Residents should charge devices now, secure outdoor items, and avoid non-essential travel after storms begin. Schools and evening events may face delays or cancellations as warnings develop.
This threat continues through late evening, with additional warnings likely if storm cells strengthen.
