Des Moines, Iowa – Damaging winds and an isolated tornado could threaten central Iowa from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. today as a line of strong to severe storms sweeps across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, scattered thunderstorms will develop this afternoon, bringing wind gusts up to 60 mph and the possibility of a tornado or two, especially along and north of I-80. The primary risk zone stretches from Council Bluffs to Waterloo and includes Ames, Marshalltown, and Fort Dodge. Outdoor activities and travel may be disrupted by heavy rain, downed limbs, and sudden gusts. Conditions are also favorable for funnel clouds to develop, particularly in open areas and rural stretches.
Drivers should be alert for sudden visibility drops and be ready to seek indoor shelter if warnings are issued. Charge mobile devices and have multiple ways to receive alerts as storms may quickly turn severe. Residents are urged to stay weather aware and delay non-essential plans until storms have cleared.
The severe threat is expected to diminish after 10 p.m., but more updates may follow if additional storms redevelop overnight.
