Cedar Rapids, Iowa – A fast-moving line of severe thunderstorms is expected to rip across Iowa late this afternoon into the evening, packing wind gusts of 50 to 70-plus mph and the potential to cause widespread damage. The National Weather Service warns the greatest threat will occur along and north of Interstate 80, with the strongest winds hitting Iowa between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, storms will first hit the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City areas between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., then track toward the Quad Cities between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., before reaching northwestern Illinois by 7 p.m. Lightning will be frequent, and minor flooding from heavy rain is possible. While the tornado risk is low, a brief spin-up can’t be ruled out.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge devices, and be prepared for potential power outages. Travel may become hazardous, especially on east–west highways where crosswinds could be extreme.
The severe threat should shift east of the Mississippi River by late evening, but additional storms are possible overnight.
