DES MOINES, Iowa – Iowa continues to face a barrage of severe weather this spring, with more storms sweeping across the state early Friday morning. The relentless weather patterns have led to multiple school closures, power outages, and severe thunderstorm warnings affecting various areas in Iowa. As the storms move eastward, Marshalltown is now in the path of severe weather, with large hail reported in southern Iowa, causing significant damage. More than 30,000 people are currently without power in the state, with MidAmerican Energy working to restore electricity to affected areas.
The strong winds accompanying the storms have prompted warnings of delays from the Des Moines Area Rapid Transit (DART) system, urging commuters to stay informed through the MyDART app. Tornado warnings have been issued for Pella, Montezuma, and other parts of central Iowa, prompting residents to seek shelter immediately. The National Weather Service has confirmed the presence of tornadoes in certain areas, with wind speeds reaching up to 70 mph or higher.
The severe weather has also caused power outages affecting thousands of MidAmerican Energy customers in various regions of Iowa, with the majority of outages concentrated in Des Moines. The state remains under a severe thunderstorm watch, with the potential for damaging winds, tornadoes, and large hail, as heavy rainfall exacerbates already saturated soils and swelling rivers and streams. The Storm Prediction Center has identified enhanced severe storm risks in western Iowa, particularly in areas still recovering from recent deadly tornadoes.
As the storms continue to move across the state, it is crucial for residents to stay weather-aware and prepared for potential hazards. Understanding the Enhanced Fujita Scale can help individuals assess the severity of tornadoes based on estimated wind speeds and related damage. By staying informed and following safety guidelines, residents can navigate through the challenging weather conditions and minimize risks to themselves and their property.