(Des Moines) Southwest and west-central Iowa is under a tornado watch as atmospheric conditions become increasingly favorable for organized severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service is monitoring the potential for tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds as a strong upper-level weather system moves into the region.
According to the latest discussion from the Storm Prediction Center, the atmosphere is expected to destabilize rapidly across southeast Nebraska and southwest Iowa. Increasing warmth and moisture, combined with strengthening winds aloft, could provide the ingredients needed for powerful thunderstorms to develop.
A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms to develop. It does not mean that a tornado is currently occurring or that one is certain to form. However, residents within the watch area should remain alert and be prepared to take shelter if a tornado warning is issued.
Residents across southwest Iowa should monitor weather updates closely throughout the afternoon and evening. Keeping phones charged, having multiple ways to receive weather warnings and knowing where to shelter before storms arrive can help residents respond quickly if conditions deteriorate.
For those in the path of developing storms, the safest option during a tornado warning is to move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.
With instability increasing and wind shear strengthening, forecasters will continue to closely monitor thunderstorms as they develop across the region. Southwest Iowa residents should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions and stay weather-aware through the evening.
