Ottumwa, Iowa – Scattered thunderstorms are tracking southeast across Iowa early this morning, with small hail and minor flooding possible before 9 a.m. Thursday. The highest threat zone stretches from Ottumwa through Burlington and into the Missouri border.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, the most intense storms will carry frequent lightning, gusty winds, and bursts of heavy rainfall. Rainfall rates could overwhelm low-lying streets and storm drains, particularly in rural areas around Kirkville and Keosauqua.
Drivers along U.S. Highway 63 and Routes 34 and 61 should expect poor visibility and slick pavement, especially during the morning commute. Local emergency managers urge residents to remain indoors and ready to shelter if lightning becomes persistent.
Rain and storms will continue sliding southeast at 20 mph and are expected to exit the region by mid-morning. However, residual road flooding and isolated power outages may linger into midday.
Stay tuned to further advisories, as additional rounds of storms could redevelop later this week.
