People across central and eastern Iowa, including Des Moines, should get ready for another round of severe storms on Friday. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that showers and thunderstorms will begin late in the morning, with the strongest storms expected to hit after 10 a.m. Damaging winds will be the main threat, though hail and heavy rain are also possible.
Timing and Areas at Risk
The storm system is expected to start late Friday morning and intensify by midday. It will mainly affect central and eastern Iowa, with a chance of stretching into southern parts of the state, though that is still uncertain. The storms are expected to move southeast during the afternoon. Cities likely to be impacted include Des Moines, Ames, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids.
Main Weather Threat: Damaging Winds
The biggest concern is strong wind gusts, possibly reaching 35 mph or more. These winds can cause fallen trees, power outages, and minor damage to outdoor structures. Hail and heavy rain may also occur but are considered secondary threats.
Travel and Outdoor Plans Could Be Affected
Driving during storm hours, especially on Interstate 35 or I-80, could become risky. Wet roads, strong winds, and poor visibility may create hazardous travel conditions. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, charge their phones and devices in case of a power outage, stay updated on weather alerts, and make shelter arrangements if they have outdoor plans.
How Long Will the Storms Last?
Storms are expected to move out by Friday night. However, there is a chance that the southern part of the system could become more active, which may lead to more updates and warnings. Keep an eye on local forecasts for any changes throughout the day.
Storm Safety Checklist
Before the storms arrive, check the latest forecast, secure any loose items outside, keep flashlights and batteries ready, charge your phone and power banks, review your shelter plan, and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.
Iowa is expecting another round of severe storms on Friday, with damaging winds as the main concern. The worst weather is expected after 10 a.m., especially in central and eastern parts of the state. Prepare ahead of time, stay indoors if possible, and follow official weather alerts. Being ready now can help avoid serious problems later.
