Severe Tornado Warnings Issued Across Iowa as Storms Intensify

DES MOINES, Iowa — Severe thunderstorms swept through western Iowa late Thursday night, prompting multiple tornado warnings and a tornado emergency as conditions continued to deteriorate. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued warnings for regions experiencing dangerous weather, particularly focused on southwest Iowa.

At 9:44 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Corning, moving east at 40 mph, with warnings indicating potential hail as large as 2 inches in diameter. Residents were advised to take shelter in the lowest level of a sturdy building, according to the NWS.

The NWS confirmed a “large and extremely dangerous tornado” at 9:26 p.m. located over Nodaway, approximately 10 miles southwest of Corning. This tornado was moving east at 40 mph and was expected to reach Villisca around 9:20 p.m.

In total, multiple counties, including Adams and Taylor, were placed under tornado warnings until 10 p.m. Earlier in the evening, at 8:52 p.m., Essex was under a tornado emergency due to a confirmed tornado located just west of the town, moving east at 30 mph.

The on-ground situation was tense, with storm watchers noting a very tight rotation in radar data. Meteorologist updates highlighted the importance of staying indoors and away from windows as storms approached populated areas. “It’s imperative that you seek safety immediately,” officials reported.

As storms progressed eastward, updates to the radar indicated a slight weakening in rotation, but the tornado threat remained. Residents were urged not to let their guard down, as even weakened storms could still pose significant dangers.

“While the tornado is weakening, we still need everyone to stay alert,” one meteorologist emphasized. “These weather patterns can quickly change, and safety should remain the top priority.”

Severe weather watches continued to extend eastward as additional storms formed in adjacent regions. A tornado watch covering 16 counties, which included areas like Warren and Madison, was issued until midnight. Severe thunderstorm warnings were also issued for northeastern Cass and Adair counties, where gusts up to 60 mph were anticipated.

In the midst of these tornado warnings, hail events were also notable. Reports indicated hail sizes ranging from quarter-sized to even golf balls in some locations, causing widespread damage to properties and vehicles.

The possibility for these severe weather conditions presented an enhanced risk, prompting the NWS to alert communities from Nebraska through Iowa about the likelihood of isolated tornadoes and large hail. Local media and weather apps encouraged residents to remain vigilant and keep their devices ready for emergency alerts.

As late evening approached, the potential for damaging winds and persistent thunderstorms led to emergency precautions across the entire region. Authorities reiterated that public safety measures, like having an emergency plan, were crucial during these unpredictable weather events.

Residents are reminded to stay tuned to local news and weather stations for live updates as the storm systems continue to develop throughout the night.