Iowa Braces for Afternoon Return of Powerful Storms
Iowa braces this afternoon for a return of powerful storms as a strong cold front approaches. Warm conditions will precede the frontal passage.
Severe risk and timing
Storms are expected to develop around or after noon across parts of the state. The cold front is moving in from the northwest.
Eastern and southeastern counties carry the highest severe risk. Central Iowa has a lower threat level, but storms remain possible.
Forecasts place eastern and southeastern Iowa in a Level 3 of 5 risk. Central counties sit at Level 1 to 2.
The strongest storms are more likely east and south of Interstate 35. This lowers the chance for tornadoes across the metro area.
Winds and hazards
Strong south-southwest winds are expected at 15 to 25 mph. Gusts near 40 mph are possible.
All modes of severe weather remain possible. Damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes could occur.
Short-term forecast
| Period | Conditions | Temperature | Winds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Today | Windy. Strong thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. Potential for severe storms. | High 82 F | SW 20 to 30 mph |
| Tonight | Cloudy early, then partly cloudy later at night. | Low 34 F | NW 15 to 25 mph |
| Tomorrow (Saturday) | Sunshine with a few passing clouds. Turning cooler. | High 51 F | WNW 15 to 25 mph |
| Tomorrow Night | A few clouds. | Low 34 F | WNW 10 to 20 mph |
After the front
Temperatures will drop after the front passes. Saturday morning lows will fall into the 30s.
Wind chills may read in the 20s to low 30s. Saturday will stay windy with gusts of 25 to 35 mph.
Sustained winds will be around 15 to 25 mph from the west-northwest. Highs Saturday will be in the 40s and 50s.
Sunday should bring lighter winds and a rebound into the 60s. Next week looks mostly calm and dry with a few breezy days.
Rain and storm chances may return by Thursday and Friday.
How to monitor conditions
Filmogaz.com offers live skycams from more than 25 sites across the state. Use those feeds and radar to track storm timing.
