Cedar Rapids, IA – A line of fast-moving thunderstorms is racing across central Iowa and is expected to reach eastern counties, including Cedar Rapids, by early evening, bringing pea-sized hail and gusty winds.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, the storms are traveling at 45 mph and are projected to move east of Interstate 35 into eastern Iowa between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday. The most intense cells could produce locally gusty winds up to 55 mph, occasional lightning, and brief but heavy downpours.
The greatest threat area spans from Ottumwa and Cedar Rapids up toward Dubuque, where the Storm Prediction Center has highlighted high confidence in hazardous conditions. Counties in the orange-shaded region on the NWS alert map are advised to monitor weather updates closely…