IOWA — Thunderstorms are expected to return to parts of Iowa Tuesday evening and continue overnight after several days of unusually warm and dry weather. Some of the storms could become strong to severe. Parts of southeast Iowa are under a Level 1 out of 5, or Marginal, risk for severe weather on Tuesday. Large hail and gusty winds are the main threats with any stronger storms.
Marginal Risk Covers Southeast Iowa
The Marginal risk area stretches across southern and southeast Iowa, including Des Moines, Creston, Chariton, and Ottumwa. It continues northeast through Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Clinton.
Burlington and areas along the Mississippi River are also in the risk zone. The outlook extends into northwest Illinois near Peoria, Macomb, and Ottawa, along with parts of northeast Missouri and southwest Iowa near Shenandoah.
Large Hail and Gusty Winds Are the Main Threats
Any storms that turn severe could produce large hail and damaging wind gusts. Hail can damage vehicles, roofs, and late-season crops.
Gusty winds may knock down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages. Widespread severe weather is not expected, but a few isolated storms could reach severe levels.
Storms Arrive Tuesday Evening and Continue Overnight
Thunderstorm chances will go up Tuesday evening, and activity is expected to last into the overnight hours. Storms arriving after dark can be harder to see and track…