Severe thunderstorm threat continues across Iowa

On By Littum

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Parts of southwest and central Iowa are under a severe thunderstorm Wednesday afternoon and evening, with rain and severe weather moving across the state. Warnings have appeared in several counties so far this afternoon.

Lightning and gusty winds are expected to continue in Iowa

The strongest storms in Iowa were located near Osceola from 15.30 Wednesday. No storms were at severe levels, but the National Weather Service warned that lightning, gusty winds and small hail would still be possible as the system continued across the state.

What does the Des Moines weather radar show?

Track the arrival of rain and storms with the latest radar loop from the National Weather Service

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Expires for Des Moines Metro

A severe thunderstorm warning for the Des Moines metro area was allowed to expire at 2:30 p.m

The warning, which covered parts of Dallas, Madison, Polk and Warren counties, had a risk of 60 mph gusts and quarter-sized hail.

Severe thunderstorms in place until 19 Wednesday

The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm watch for about two dozen counties until 8 p.m. 19 Wednesday. This includes Dallas, Polk and Warren counties in the Des Moines area. Story County is not included.

Cities in the metro area postponed their Beggars’ Night celebrations, expecting severe weather to develop. Most trick-or-treating will now be held on Thursday.

What are the severe weather threats in Iowa today?

Storms are expected to move into the state capable of producing wind gusts up to 80 mph, isolated large hail and tornadoes.

The weather service warned earlier in the day that storms will be swift and Iowans will have less time than usual to find shelter. Tornadoes can be difficult to see as storms develop later in the evening.

Urban flooding is also possible with pockets of 1-3 inches of rain possible.