Quad Cities, IA – Thunderstorms are sweeping across southeast Iowa Thursday afternoon, bringing lightning, small hail, and strong winds to several communities including Burlington, Ottumwa, and the Quad Cities region.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, the storms began moving southeast at approximately 25 mph early Thursday. The system is expected to persist through the afternoon, producing frequent lightning strikes, pea-size hail, and isolated wind gusts reaching up to 45 mph in the most intense cells.
Areas most likely to experience impacts include Iowa City, Washington, and Keokuk, where radar imagery has shown consistent storm development since midday. Officials are urging residents to remain indoors when thunder is heard and to avoid open areas or high ground during the storms.
While no widespread damage has been reported yet, wind gusts at this level can down small branches and cause minor power disruptions. Motorists should remain alert, especially on highways where sudden visibility loss or slick conditions may develop.
This event follows a week of mild temperatures, making Thursday’s storm activity an abrupt shift for southeastern Iowa. Residents are advised to monitor local alerts and prepare for potential temporary disruptions through early evening.
