Wapello, Iowa – A fast-moving severe thunderstorm is pushing across southeast Iowa and into western Illinois right now, bringing damaging wind gusts and hail that could impact travel and property within minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is in effect until 10:30 a.m. CDT for southern Louisa County and northeastern Henry County in Iowa, along with western Mercer County in Illinois. As of 9:34 a.m., the storm was located near the Virginia Grove Recreation Area, just outside Wapello, moving east at around 30 mph.
The storm is capable of producing wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to 1 inch in diameter. These conditions could damage vehicles, roofs, siding, and trees, especially in communities directly in the storm’s path.
Locations at risk include Wapello, Winfield, Morning Sun, Oakville, Keithsburg, New Boston, and surrounding rural areas. Roads in these areas could quickly become hazardous with falling debris, sudden downpours, and reduced visibility.
Residents are urged to move indoors immediately and stay away from windows. The safest place is an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
Storms will continue tracking east through mid-morning, and additional warnings may be issued if conditions intensify.
