Multiple Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Warnings Across Iowa
A severe weather outbreak is expected to hit Iowa, with multiple thunderstorm warnings and tornado warnings issued for various locations. Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued for various counties in Iowa, some containing baseball-sized hail or two-inch-sized hail. A tornado watch is in effect for 41 counties in central and eastern Iowa until 8 p.m. Friday evening, putting over 5 million people at risk.
Dozens of school districts are dismissing early due to possible storms, while a winter weather advisory is also in effect for certain counties starting from 11 p.m. until April 1 at 7 a.m. The National Weather Service has warned that winds could reach up to 55 mph overnight tonight into Saturday morning, causing hazardous conditions.
Particularly Dangerous Tornado Watch Issued for Southeast Iowa
A Particularly Dangerous Tornado Watch has been issued for much of the state, with a rare high-risk outline placed over southeast Iowa. The atmosphere is primed for damaging winds, tornadoes, and large hail. Storms are expected to fire along the I-35 corridor around 2 pm, racing east and exiting eastern Iowa by around 7 pm.
These storms will be moving very quickly at speeds of 50-60 mph. It is important to be prepared ahead of a warning being issued; know where a safe place is, have a severe weather safety kit in place, and make sure all family members know the severe weather safety plan. Multiple reliable ways to get severe weather warning information should be used and not rely on only sirens or phone.
Stay weather aware and plugged into the latest updates on different platforms such as First Alert Weather App, YouTube Live, on-air, kcrg.com/livestreams, and social media channels.
Blizzard Warning in Far Northwest Iowa
A blizzard warning has been issued for far northwest Iowa, which will be in effect from 11 p.m. on Friday to 7 a.m. on Saturday. The potential impact of the blizzard could result in difficult travel conditions.
The National Weather Service also issued a tornado warning for Ottumwa and surrounding regions, which has the potential to be accompanied by baseball-sized hail. Additionally, large hail up to two inches in diameter was reported in Story County due to thunderstorms moving across Iowa.
Stay Safe During Severe Weather Conditions
Severe weather conditions pose a serious safety risk to people and property. It is important to stay informed and updated regarding the latest developments and warnings.
Stay safe during storms and follow safety protocols such as seeking shelter in a basement or an inner room with no windows, stay away from windows and doors, and cover your head with pillows, blankets or helmets.
In case of power outages, prepare an emergency kit comprising essential items such as water, food, battery-powered radio, flashlight and batteries, medicines along with first aid supplies.
Conclusion
Severe weather conditions have been sweeping across Iowa with multiple thunderstorm warnings, tornado warnings issued for various locations accompanied by potential hail damage. A Particularly Dangerous Tornado Watch has been issued over southeast Iowa with a rare high-risk outline placing millions of people at risk. Therefore it is essential to exercise caution and follow the safety protocols during severe weather conditions.
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