Tornado Warnings Issued Across Southern Iowa Amid Severe Weather

DES MOINES, Iowa – Severe weather intensified in southern Iowa on Friday, July 11, 2025, prompting multiple tornado warnings and ongoing watches for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. Heavy rains are anticipated, leading to a flood watch affecting approximately one-third of the state, including Polk County.

As of 4:45 p.m., tornado warnings in southern Iowa, particularly in Clarke County, have expired. However, a tornado warning was earlier issued for northwestern Clarke County until that time after radar indicated rotation, impacting areas such as Murray and Osceola.

A confirmed tornado warning for Taylor County was also initiated, following reports of a thin funnel cloud touching down briefly. This warning expired at 4:30 p.m.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for parts of southeastern Dallas County, southern Polk County, northeastern Madison County, and northern Warren County, lasting until 10 p.m. Forecasts predict rainfall between 1 to 2 inches, with some areas potentially receiving an additional inch.

Locations at risk for flash flooding include the Des Moines area and surrounding towns like West Des Moines and Indianola. In total, 17 counties in central and northeastern Iowa are under a severe thunderstorm watch until 9 p.m., further complicating travel conditions.

A Tornado Watch is also in effect until 8 p.m. for regions in central and southeast Iowa, including Des Moines. Conditions are favorable for further strong storms, which could still pose dangers including high winds and more possible tornado formations.

As the storm system approached, the Iowa Speedway in Newton had to issue safety announcements, with IndyCar practice being interrupted as sirens sounded.

Amid the severe weather, reports of flooding have arisen in Ames, where police advised drivers to avoid flooded roads, citing multiple stalled vehicles. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and heed any weather alerts or instructions from local officials.

With severe weather expected to continue throughout the evening, citizens are encouraged to monitor updates from the NWS and local news for the latest information regarding storm developments and safety precautions.