Des Moines, IA – Western Iowa is on alert for potentially severe weather as thunderstorms are expected to develop late Wednesday, August 14, 2024, continuing into the early hours of Thursday. The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a warning that these storms could bring damaging winds, large hail, and locally heavy rainfall, with a risk of isolated tornadoes.
While today remains mostly dry with temperatures ranging from 75 to 80 degrees, cloud cover will increase, especially in the central and southwestern parts of the state, as the day progresses. By late evening, showers and thunderstorms are expected to spread across the region. Lows will dip into the lower to mid-60s, with scattered storms lingering into Wednesday afternoon.
The primary threat timing is set for Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. through 2 a.m. Thursday. Areas in southwestern Iowa, including Omaha and Council Bluffs, are under a level 2 risk, meaning scattered severe storms are possible. Residents are advised to stay weather-aware, especially if they have outdoor plans, and to monitor local forecasts closely.
Wednesday night’s storms could be strong, so ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings and have a shelter plan in place if severe weather approaches your area.
