Des Moines, Iowa – Scattered severe thunderstorms are expected across much of Iowa this afternoon and evening, with the highest threat for damaging winds, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Level 2 risk covers northeast and central parts of the state—including Mason City, Charles City, and Waterloo—where isolated tornadoes could develop as a line of storms moves west to east. Areas like Des Moines, Ames, and Cedar Rapids fall under a Level 1 risk for damaging winds and hail.
The storms follow multiple days of rainfall, adding to the flood risk. Flash flooding is possible in saturated areas, especially in northern and northwest Iowa, where a Flood Watch remains in effect until 1 p.m. Rainfall totals of 1–2 inches are expected, with isolated pockets receiving 3–4 inches…