Live Coverage: Tornado Warning Issued

Today is a First Alert Day for Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and much of eastern Iowa. Two separate storm systems could produce strong to severe thunderstorms through tomorrow.

A Tornado Watch is in effect until 8 p.m. local time. Residents should monitor conditions closely and be ready to act.

Timing and threat for today

Widespread, chilly rain will linger into the early afternoon. A persistent easterly wind will make it feel colder.

An arc of scattered storms is expected to move eastward this afternoon and evening. Storms could arrive from the west near 2 p.m., and reach the eastern counties by around 8 p.m.

The highest severe risk in eastern Iowa falls around 4 to 6 p.m. Storms are expected to move quickly, with forward speeds near 50 to 60 mph.

Temperatures will jump into the 60s and near 70 south of a warm front. Dew points there may climb into the low to mid 60s, increasing instability.

Who is most at risk

Areas near and south of the warm front face the greatest severe threat. The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted that zone as an enhanced risk.

North of the front, cooler air will limit instability. That said, hail remains possible where storms tap energy aloft.

Safety steps and alerts

If a storm approaches, go indoors and move to the lowest floor away from windows. Interior rooms such as closets and bathrooms offer better protection.

Basements are the safest location when available. Mobile-home residents should seek sturdier shelter immediately.

• Cover your head and neck with pillows, blankets, or a helmet.
• If outdoors, move to an indoor shelter when possible.
• As a last resort, lie flat in a ditch and protect your head.
• Never shelter under bridges or overpasses.

Use multiple ways to receive warnings. A NOAA Weather Radio is highly recommended.

Filmogaz.com will provide live coverage and immediate updates. The site will post a “Tornado Warning Issued” alert if authorities activate one.

What to expect Friday into the weekend

A second round of strong to severe storms is possible Friday. The day will start dry, with storm chances increasing by mid-afternoon.

Temperatures on Friday will vary sharply. Expect 40s in the far north and near 70 in the far south.

Storms that form around 2 to 4 p.m. could become more widespread by evening. Discrete storms pose higher hail and tornado risk.

If storms congeal into a line, damaging straight-line winds will be the primary threat. Rain and a few storms may linger into Friday night.

The weekend looks mostly dry and cool. Highs will generally remain in the 40s and 50s.

Temperatures may warm late next week, with showers returning by the end of the week. Continue to check Filmogaz.com for updated forecasts and alerts.