Urgent KCRG Weather Alert: Severe Storms and Flood Risk

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KCRG weather officials are warning of a stormy night across much of eastern Iowa, with a few severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, heavy rain and possible flash flooding expected Tuesday evening into the overnight hours. The First Alert Day remains in effect through Tuesday night as storms develop and move across the region.

Urgent KCRG Weather Alert for Eastern Iowa

According to First Alert Meteorologist Corey Thompson, showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop and move through eastern Iowa between approximately 6 p.m. and midnight Tuesday. While not every storm will become severe, the strongest storms could produce damaging wind gusts.

Hail and an isolated tornado cannot be completely ruled out, although those threats are considered secondary compared with the potential for strong winds. Residents should remain alert, especially if thunderstorms approach their communities during the evening.

• Strong to severe storms are possible between 6 p.m. and midnight.
• Damaging winds are the primary severe weather threat.
• Small hail and an isolated tornado remain possible.
• Frequent lightning and intense downpours could continue overnight.

Heavy Rain Could Trigger Flash Flooding

The severe weather threat is expected to gradually diminish overnight, but the danger will not end when the strongest storms pass. Moisture ahead of the cold front is expected to fuel periods of heavy rain, particularly near and south of U.S. Highway 20.

Some areas could receive between 1 and 3 inches of rain in a west-to-east band, with the highest potential generally between Interstate 80 and Highway 20. Repeated thunderstorms moving over the same locations could quickly overwhelm drainage systems.

Urban areas and locations that have already received significant rainfall may face an increased risk of flash flooding. Anyone living in a flood-prone area should be prepared to move to higher ground if a Flash Flood Warning is issued.

Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roads, especially at night when it is difficult to judge water depth or determine whether a roadway has been damaged. The safest choice is to turn around and find another route.

Critical Safety Steps Before Storms Arrive

Residents should take a few minutes to prepare before storms begin. Keep phones charged, bring outdoor items inside and make sure everyone in the household knows where to shelter.

If a warning is issued, move to the lowest floor of a sturdy building and stay away from windows. During a tornado warning, place as many walls as possible between yourself and the outdoors. An interior bathroom, closet or basement is a safer location.

People in mobile homes should leave immediately for a more substantial shelter. Anyone caught outdoors should try to reach an indoor location. As a last resort, lie flat in a ditch while covering your head and neck. Do not shelter under bridges or overpasses.

Multiple methods of receiving alerts are recommended. A NOAA Weather Radio can provide warnings overnight, while a trusted weather app and local television updates can offer additional information.

Cooler, Drier Weather Arrives Later This Week

Wednesday is expected to begin wet and muggy, with showers and storms lingering into the morning. Activity should gradually sag southward, allowing many areas to dry out during the afternoon. Skies will slowly clear, and temperatures should reach the low 80s.

Drier air will arrive Wednesday night, bringing a welcome break from the humidity. Thursday and Friday are expected to feature highs in the upper 70s to low 80s, with overnight lows falling into the mid to upper 50s.

The weather pattern becomes active again this weekend. Storm chances may return from Friday night through Monday night, although Saturday and Sunday daytime hours are not expected to be a total washout. Friday night and Monday into Monday night could bring another round of heavier rainfall.

After this unsettled stretch, temperatures are forecast to settle closer to typical mid-September levels. Highs from Sunday through the following Thursday should remain in the 70s, with lows generally in the mid-50s to low 60s.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are severe storms most likely in eastern Iowa?

The greatest risk is expected between approximately 6 p.m. and midnight Tuesday, although showers and storms may continue into the overnight hours.

What is the main severe weather threat?

Damaging winds are the primary concern. Hail and an isolated tornado are also possible but appear less likely.

How much rain could fall?

Some locations could receive 1 to 3 inches of rain, especially in areas where thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same locations.

What should drivers do if they encounter floodwater?

Do not drive through flooded roads. Turn around and find another route, since nighttime conditions can make flood depth and roadway damage difficult to see.

When will cooler weather arrive?

Drier air should arrive Wednesday night, with more comfortable temperatures and lower humidity expected Thursday and Friday.