Des Moines, Iowa – Strong storms could begin impacting northern Iowa by 8 p.m. Monday, with large hail and damaging wind gusts posing a risk to drivers and overnight travel through early Tuesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, isolated severe thunderstorms are expected mainly across northern Iowa Monday evening into early Tuesday, with the primary threats including hail up to around 1 inch in diameter and wind gusts strong enough to down tree limbs or cause isolated power outages. The storm window extends from 8 p.m. Monday until about 2 a.m. Tuesday.
Cities including Mason City, Fort Dodge, and Waterloo sit in the highest risk zone, while areas farther south like Des Moines and Ottumwa may see less intense activity. Even so, any storm that develops could briefly become severe.
A second round of storms is expected Tuesday afternoon into the evening, again bringing the potential for hail and gusty winds across parts of central and eastern Iowa. Timing for this round centers on the late afternoon commute through sunset.
Residents should secure outdoor items, park vehicles away from trees, and remain weather-aware overnight as storms develop. Additional alerts or warnings may be issued as storm timing and intensity become clearer into Monday night.
