Des Moines, Iowa – Iowans face two rounds of thunderstorms Monday, beginning with isolated storms during the early morning hours before a more widespread and potentially severe outbreak develops Monday evening with damaging winds, large hail and isolated tornadoes possible.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines and the Storm Prediction Center, isolated strong to severe thunderstorms are possible from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. Monday, mainly across northern Iowa. While these morning storms are expected to weaken as they move southeast, they could still produce gusty, damaging winds.
The greater concern arrives Monday afternoon and evening, when thunderstorms are expected to strengthen as they move across the state. Much of northeast Iowa and parts of central Iowa are under an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe weather, while surrounding areas remain under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5).
Communities including Mason City, Waterloo, Charles City, Ames, Fort Dodge, Marshalltown, Cedar Rapids and nearby areas have the highest chance of experiencing severe storms. The primary threat is damaging wind gusts, but large hail, isolated tornadoes and locally heavy rainfall are also possible. Storms are expected to move southeast at around 35 mph, potentially affecting the evening commute.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture and other loose objects before storms arrive, charge mobile devices in case of power outages and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. Those with outdoor plans Monday evening should be prepared to move to sturdy shelter quickly if warnings are issued.
Forecast confidence continues to increase that parts of Iowa will experience impactful severe weather Monday evening. Additional Severe Thunderstorm Watches and Tornado Watches may be issued as storms develop and move across the state.
