Severe Storms Expected in Iowa This Week with Flood Risks

SIOUX CITY, Iowa — Iowans should prepare for strong storms and heavy rain through the first half of this week. Severe thunderstorms are expected, particularly in central and southern Iowa, starting this evening.

The storms will develop ahead of a boundary moving southeast from Minnesota into Iowa after 5 p.m. tonight. These storms could produce damaging winds and large hail, particularly between 6 and 8 p.m. As the storms approach central Iowa around 9 to 10 p.m., their intensity is expected to decrease.

On Tuesday, the front will linger across Iowa, creating conditions for another round of storms. However, the threat level for severe weather is uncertain. Overnight storms from Nebraska may weaken as they enter Iowa during the morning, potentially reducing the risk for later in the day.

If the morning storms dissipate, heat and moisture are likely to build up by Tuesday afternoon, possibly resulting in stronger storms driven by a wave of energy interacting with the front. While wind shear isn’t favorable for tornadoes, isolated tornadoes can’t be completely ruled out.

As storms progress into Tuesday night, widespread heavy rainfall is expected, which could lead to localized flooding in low-lying and previously affected areas. Residents should remain vigilant if they live in or visit flood-prone regions.

The weather pattern will continue with warm afternoons and a chance for pop-up thunderstorms, with conditions expected to remain active through the week. The National Weather Service advises locals to stay weather-aware and have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings.