Kcci Weather: Severe Storms Push Across Iowa Thursday Night
kcci weather is tracking thunderstorms as they move through western Iowa on Thursday, with the line expected to continue east across the state later in the day. The main concerns are damaging winds and hail, while a tornado or two remains possible, mainly in western Iowa. A tornado watch is in effect for much of the western half of the state through 7 p. m. ET.
What Iowa Is Facing Now
The majority of central Iowa is under a Level 2 of 5 risk, or slight risk, for severe weather later today. The storms are moving from western Iowa this afternoon toward eastern Iowa by late evening, with damaging winds identified as the biggest threat. The watch does not currently include the Des Moines metro or Ames, but it does cover 40 counties, including areas around Algona, Fort Dodge, Jefferson, Carroll, Atlantic, and Creston.
Storms are expected to reach Interstate 35 between about 7 p. m. ET and 9 p. m. ET. The timing matters because the strongest storms are expected while they move through western communities, then gradually weaken later in the evening as they approach eastern parts of the state.
Kcci Weather and the Latest Timing
kcci weather is also highlighting the possibility of scattered showers or a few storms ahead of the main line. Those smaller cells could develop at any time before the larger storm line arrives. The main line of activity is expected to move across the state from the afternoon hours into the early evening, then continue into eastern Iowa by late evening.
That means conditions may shift quickly across Iowa within just a few hours. The storm line is being watched closely because damaging winds remain the primary concern, with hail and an isolated tornado still possible.
Immediate Impact and Local Response
Severe weather has already affected plans in central Iowa. Drake announced schedule adjustments for Thursday because of expected severe weather around central Iowa Thursday night. The updated schedule begins Thursday’s events at 2 p. m. ET with the 4×800 relay, and the WACT men’s hammer throw is set for 3 p. m. ET in the north fields. High school boys discus has been moved to 8 a. m. ET Saturday.
The men’s and women’s invitational 10K races remain scheduled for Thursday night, though those races could still move to Friday or Saturday depending on weather.
What Comes Next
After tonight’s storms, most areas are expected to turn dry and fairly clear by daybreak Friday. Sunshine is expected to be widespread Friday, with cooler but still comfortable temperatures. More storm chances may return later, but for now the focus stays on the line of storms moving across Iowa and the tornado watch in western counties. kcci weather will continue to be a key watchpoint as the system pushes east through the evening.
