Cedar Rapids, IA – A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for multiple counties in eastern Iowa, with storms expected to bring damaging winds, hail, and possible tornadoes until 2 a.m. CDT Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes Benton, Buchanan, Cedar, Clinton, Delaware, Des Moines, Dubuque, Henry, Iowa, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Jones, Keokuk, Lee, Linn, Louisa, Muscatine, Scott, Van Buren, and Washington counties. Residents in these areas should remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions.
Meteorologists warn of strong wind gusts exceeding 60 mph and hail up to one inch in diameter. Heavy rainfall may also lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas. While tornadoes are not the primary threat, isolated tornado activity cannot be ruled out.
Officials advise residents to secure outdoor objects, avoid unnecessary travel, and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, including NOAA weather radios and mobile notifications. If severe storms develop, residents should seek shelter in a sturdy building, away from windows.
The storm system is expected to move eastward overnight, with conditions improving by early Saturday morning. Stay updated with local forecasts and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
