Widespread Severe Thunderstorms:: Multiple rounds of strong to severe storms are impacting central, southern, and eastern Iowa, as well as parts of Nebraska.
Primary Threats:: The main risks include damaging winds, potentially reaching 80-95 mph, and large hail. Why this matters: These can cause significant property damage, power outages, and pose immediate danger to individuals.
Flood Risk:: Heavy rainfall of 1 to 3 inches is expected in areas already saturated from previous storms, leading to renewed flash flooding concerns, particularly south of I-80. Why this matters: Flash floods are extremely dangerous and can lead to road closures and property damage.
Isolated Tornado Threat:: While less likely, isolated tornadoes remain a possibility, especially if storms stay individualized rather than congealing into lines. Why this matters: Tornadoes are among the most violent weather phenomena, requiring immediate protective action.
Upcoming Tropical Heat:: After a brief reprieve on Friday, warm and sticky summer weather, indicative of tropical heat, is forecast to return by Saturday, potentially bringing another round of severe weather. Why this matters: High humidity and heat can lead to heat-related illnesses, and combined with storm risks, require extra vigilance.
Iowa has been under a barrage of severe weather, with multiple clusters of strong thunderstorms traversing the state. Early Thursday morning saw severe storms pushing through southwest Iowa, carrying large hail and damaging winds from Nebraska. These storms primarily favored areas south of I-80, with the most intense activity expected along and south of Highway 34, reaching central Iowa between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. CDT. Radar estimates indicated wind gusts in the 80-95 mph range, with video evidence showing trees snapped in half near Creston.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch was in effect until 10 a.m. for much of central and southern Iowa, including cities like Fort Dodge, Ames, and Des Moines. Beyond the immediate storm threats, significant rainfall has been a concern. With an additional 1 to 3 inches of rain expected in areas that experienced heavy rainfall on Wednesday, flash flooding remains a serious risk, especially south of I-80. Damage reports from Wednesday's storms included partially collapsed buildings in Garden Grove and downed trees in various locations like Garden Grove, Russell, and Storm City.
The afternoon severe threat for Thursday largely depended on the morning's activity, with potential for more storms developing along a lingering front and moving into eastern Iowa. Following this period of intense weather, Friday is expected to offer a brief, drier interlude before humidity and warmer temperatures return for the weekend. Saturday presents another opportunity for showers and storms, particularly in the afternoon and evening, with forecasting models indicating strong signals for severe weather across central and southern Iowa, though intensity remains uncertain. Sunday is projected to bring cooler, drier conditions before a gradual warm-up towards the end of the nine-day forecast.
How to Prepare & Who This Affects Most:
This severe weather impacts nearly all residents in central, southern, and eastern Iowa, and parts of Nebraska. Those in mobile homes or manufactured buildings are particularly vulnerable and should seek immediate shelter in a sturdy building.
Stay Informed:: Enable "Government Alerts" or "Emergency Alert Messages" on your mobile phone settings. Utilize local weather apps like KCCI ([Apple](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/kcci-8-news-des-moines/id500996843?ref=yanuki.com){target="_blank"}, [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hearst.kcci&ref=yanuki.com){target="_blank"}) for live radar and alerts.
Tornado Safety:: If in a sturdy building, go to a pre-designated safe room, basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest level away from windows. Get under a sturdy table and protect your head and neck. Do not open windows. If in a vehicle, try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter; if hit by debris, pull over and take cover.
Flooding Safety:: Never drive or walk through floodwaters. "Turn around, don't drown." Be aware of road closures and potential flash flooding in low-lying areas.
Power Outages:: Have a plan for power outages, including charged devices, flashlights, and a supply of non-perishable food and water.
Sources:
KCCI Des Moines{target="_blank"}
KCRG-TV9 Cedar Rapids{target="_blank"}
KETV Omaha{target="_blank"}
What are the primary threats from these storms?
The primary threats include damaging winds (80-95 mph), large hail, and heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding. An isolated tornado threat also exists.
How can I receive severe weather alerts on my phone?
Check your phone's settings to ensure "Government Alerts" or "Emergency Alert Messages" are enabled. Local news apps also provide real-time alerts.
What should I do if I am in a mobile home during a tornado warning?
Evacuate immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes offer little protection from tornadoes.
Will the severe weather continue through the weekend?
Friday offers a break, but severe weather, combined with tropical heat, is possible again on Saturday for central and southern Iowa. Sunday is expected to be cooler and drier.
Stay Vigilant:: Monitor local weather updates closely, especially if you are in central, southern, or eastern Iowa.
Prepare for Impact:: Have a severe weather plan in place, including safe shelter locations and methods for receiving alerts.
Exercise Caution with Flooding:: Be extremely cautious on roads, as flash flooding can develop rapidly.
Anticipate Heat:: Prepare for the return of warm and humid conditions by the weekend, which can also bring health risks and potentially more storms.
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