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Iowa weather: Recapping tornadoes and more severe weather Tuesday

Iowa weather: Recapping tornadoes and more severe weather Tuesday
WEATHER ALERT DAY. A HEARTBREAKING SCENE OUT OF GREENFIELD. A VERY VIOLENT TORNADO LEVELING HOMES AND MAKING A HUGE MESS OF THINGS. THERE ARE CONFIRMED DEATHS, BUT OFFICIAL DID NOT. OFFICIALS DID NOT SAY HOW MANY. MULTIPLE PEOPLE ARE ALSO HURT. YOU CAN SEE THE SCOPE OF THE DAMAGE FROM THIS DRONE VIDEO. OH, IT’S SO HARD TO LOOK AT THAT THERE. THESE WERE FAST MOVING STORMS. THIS IS A LOOK AT THE TORNADO THAT TOOK AIM AT THE ADAIR COUNTY SEAT. vlog SHOWED YOU SIMILAR SCENARIOS ACROSS OUR STATE EARLIER THIS AFTERNOON. AT ONE POINT, THE ENTIRE STATE WAS UNDER A TORNADO. WATCH TODAY ALSO EARLIER TODAY, A TORNADO SNAPPED WIND TURBINES LIKE TOOTHPICKS. YOU SEE ONE BROKEN IN HALF RIGHT THERE. METEOROLOGIST ZANE SATRE CAPTURED THAT STUNNING VIDEO WHILE STORM CHASING IN ADAMS COUNTY. YOU SEE THAT CLOUD OF BLACK SMOKE PLUMIN
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Iowa weather: Recapping tornadoes and more severe weather Tuesday
Tuesday's storms produced fierce tornadoes in southwest Iowa that caused massive damage in the Adair County town of Greenfield, where authorities confirmed multiple fatalities, and toppled several wind turbines in Adams County. Another apparent tornado blew across Highway 30 in Story County, overturning a semi-truck. Interactive Radar | Weather Alerts | Latest forecastFORECAST: See the latest updates hereTuesday was the second deadly outbreak of tornadoes in Iowa this spring. A western Iowa man died April 26 after a tornado hit the small town of Minden.Wednesday looks to be calm after the storm. It'll be sunny and breezy in Des Moines with a high of 75 degrees, according to the latest vlog forecast.The latest updates on Tuesday's storms:Iowa State Patrol confirms fatalities in GreenfieldThe Iowa State Patrol has confirmed multiple deaths from the Greenfield tornado and at least a dozen injuries in storms Tuesday, but it has not released specific numbers.“We do have confirmed fatalities,” Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Alex Dinkla said at a news conference Tuesday night. He said authorities were still determining the total number.More on the story from Greenfield.Johnston High School closed WednesdayJohnston school officials announced that the high school would be closed Wednesday due to storm damage. According to a post on the Johnston Community School District Facebook page: "We ask staff to please not be in the building during this time. We will run an 8-period day on Thursday. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience and flexibility." Check here for the latest closings.Disaster proclamation for 15 Iowa countiesA disaster proclamation has been authorized by Gov. Kim Reynolds for 15 counties impacted by Tuesday's devastating severe weather.The disaster proclamation activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy Program for storm victims. The counties included in the proclamation are: Adair, Adams, Cass, Clay, Hardin, Harrison, Jasper, Kossuth, Marshall, Montgomery, Page, Palo Alto, Pottawattamie, Tama, and Warren counties.More than 500 people without power in Story County following tornadoDamage to homes, downed powerlines and debris are keeping members of Story County law enforcement agencies and utility crews busy Tuesday evening following a tornado that the Story County Emergency Management team says hit several communities.Story County Emergency Management says a tornado hit the areas of Cambridge, Nevada, and Colo late Tuesday afternoon. The management team, as well as the Story County Sheriff’s Office, are asking people to stay at home in an effort to avoid areas where there is a lot of damage.Alliant Energy tells vlog there are a little more than 580 customers without power in the Nevada-Maxwell-Huxley area. A spokesperson says Alliant crews are out there assessing the damage and will work on restoration efforts as soon as possible.“I expect there’s going to be a heavy presence with the utility companies,” said Capt. Nicholas Lennie with the Story County Sheriff’s Office. “I think that’s where the focus is going to be now that we have everybody checked on.”Story County Emergency Management says people in need of help or shelter can reach out to the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For any updates, Story County Emergency Management is directing people to the County’s website, the Story County Emergency Management Facebook page, and other places.Northern Polk County sustains damage from tornadoesHomes north of Elkhart near White Oak in northern Polk County were damaged by storms Tuesday evening. Polk County Emergency Management said multiple people were displaced due to the level of devastation. On the ground, vlog reporters witnessed downed trees and powerlines, shrapnel and debris scattered for hundreds of feet throughout the area, as well as roofs and walls ripped off of homes.Drone video shows destruction, path of Greenfield, Iowa tornado More coverage of the May 21, 2024 storms: Tornadoes rip through southwest Iowa, leaving devastating damage in GreenfieldVideo: Tornado touches down in Adams County, toppling wind turbinesVideo: Apparent tornado topples truck on Iowa highwayViewers capture video of tornadoes that ripped through southwest IowaWild video shows apparent tornado topples truck on Nevada, Iowa roadwayThis traffic camera footage shows an apparent tornado blowing across Highway 30 near Nevada in Story County. Widespread damage in GreenfieldCamille Blair said the Greenfield Chamber of Commerce office where she works closed around 2 p.m. ahead of the storm, the Associated Press reports. She emerged from her home in the Adair County town of about 2,000 people to describe widespread damage and scattered debris.“There’s a pretty significant roof damage to several houses that I know will need whole new roofs," she said. "And I can see from my house it kind of went in a straight line down the road.”Iowa State Patrol spokesman Sgt. Alex Dinkla said multiple people were injured in Greenfield, but didn’t know the extent of the injuries. Adair County Hospital in town was damaged and has been evacuated, according to a Mercy One spokesperson.WATCH: Greenfield business owner says 'We will rebuild the community together'Polk County now under tornado warningParts of Polk County, as well as portions of Madison, Jasper and Warren counties, are under a tornado warning until 5:15 p.m. Hazards in the storm include possible tornadoes and half dollar-sized hail, according to the National Weather Service, which says radar is indicating rotation.Everyone in this area should find a safe space and take cover.Thousands without power in central Iowa Nearly 25,000 MidAmerican Energy customers were without power in central Iowa as of 7 p.m. Tuesday. Nearly 3,000 were without power in the Fort Dodge area and more than 13,000 were without power in the Waterloo area.You can see MidAmerican's outage map here.Iowa high school girls regional soccer delays, postponementsThe severe weather moving from southwest Iowa into the metro Tuesday afternoon has led state athletic officials to adjust or postpone regional girls soccer matches. See a full list of those schedule changes. Polk County now under severe thunderstorm warningPolk County is included on a severe thunderstorm warning that's in effect through 5:15 p.m. More counties included are Lucas, Decatur, Story, Madison, Union, Boone, Clarke, Dallas and Warren.There's a large line of severe thunderstorms from Granger to Grand River, moving northeast at 60 mph. Hazards include large hail and damaging wind.Tornado confirmed in Madison CountyThe National Weather Service says a tornado was confirmed just after 4 p.m. over Macksburg in Madison County, moving northeast at 45 mph. Tornado topples wind turbines in southwest IowaA tornado that blew through Adams County downed at least 3 wind turbines, according to vlog meteorologist Zane Satre, who was chasing storms Tuesday with vlog photographer Robbie Rissman. Tornado safety tipsIf you are in a home, small building, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center or high-rise building:Go to a pre-designated area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of a small interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.If you are in a pickup line at your child’s school, get inside the building as quickly as possible.In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.Make sure you are wearing sturdy shoes.Do not open windows.If you are in a mobile home, manufactured office building or camper:Get out immediately and go to a pre-identified location such as the lowest floor of a sturdy nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.If you are not in a sturdy building, there is no single research-based recommendation for what last-resort action to take because many factors can affect your decision.Possible actions (which do not guarantee safety) include:Immediately get into a vehicle, buckle your seat belt and try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter. If your vehicle is hit by flying debris while you are driving, pull over and park.Take cover in a stationary vehicle. Put the seat belt on and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or cushion if possible.Lie in an area noticeably lower than the level of the road and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or cushion if possible.Photo shows hail that fell in CrestonConfirmed tornado in Union CountyThe National Weather Service says a tornado was confirmed over Kent, about 8 miles south of Creston in Union County, around 3:40 p.m. The storm was moving northeast at 65 mph, and also included ping pong ball-sized hail.Separate flash flood warnings in western Iowa, Iowa CountyA flash flood warning is in effect for Iowa County through 6:45 p.m. Another flash flood warning is in effect through 9 p.m. for several counties in western Iowa, including Adair, Cass, Audubon, Carroll, Crawford, Greene and Guthrie.MidAmerican power outagesNearly 5,000 MidAmerican Energy customers were without power as of 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, including more than 2,100 in the Des Moines area and another 1,800 in the Fort Dodge area.You can see MidAmerican's outage map here.NWS confirms tornado near CorningThe National Weather Service confirmed a tornado near Corning just after 3 p.m., moving northeast at 60 mph. A tornado warning for the area, including Cass, Union, Adams and Adair counties, is in effect until 3:45 p.m.Spotters confirm tornado near Red OakA tornado warning for parts of Montgomery and Page counties in western Iowa is in effect until 3:30 p.m. A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Essex, in Page County, moving northeast at 50 mph. According to the National Weather Service, a tornado was confirmed by spotters just west of Red Oak. Everyone in this area should find a safe space and take cover.WATCH: Tornado spotted near Red OakRed Oak tornado courtesy of Amber OldhamRed Oak tornado courtesy of Manda GarrisonRed Oak tornado courtesy of Miranda MeierPower outages in central IowaMore than 2,100 MidAmerican Energy customers were without power as noon Tuesday. The majority of those outages — about 1,700 — are on the east side of Des Moines and unincorporated Polk County between the city and Altoona.Just over 400 in Des Moines were still without power shortly after 2 p.m., while more than 1,700 were without power in the Council Bluffs area.You can see MidAmerican's outage map here.Tornado watch goes into effect for all of IowaThe National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for the entire state.The watch lasts until 9 p.m. Tuesday night for most of the state. Polk, Story, Dallas and every other central Iowa county are listed in that watch. Western Iowa on storm watch soonStrong wind gusts, very large hail and tornadoes are all possible in this next batch of severe weather, which is set to reach western Iowa in the next hour, according to the National Weather Service.A tornado watch will likely be needed soon for central and eastern Iowa, too.Des Moines joins school districts closing early TuesdayDes Moines joins Ankeny, Southeast Polk and other metro school districts in closing two hours early Tuesday.Elementary schools will dismiss at 12:40 p.m. while middle and high schools will be out at 1:25 p.m. Evening activities are also canceled.Check here for the latest closings. Tennis ball-sized hail possible east of Des MoinesA severe thunderstorm warning near Montezuma could produce tennis ball-sized hail, according to the National Weather Service in Des Moines.Watch the video below to see the latest updates from meteorologist Trey Fulbright.What is ‘gorilla hail'?The term "gorilla hail" has been thrown around this spring as storms criss-crossed the Midwest, but it's not exactly scientific.“Gorilla hail” is a term coined by Reed Timmer, a storm chaser who calls himself an extreme meteorologist, according to AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alex Sosnowski. Some have started using the description for large hail, 2 inches in diameter or bigger.Traditionally, common objects like peas and golf balls and softballs have been used to describe the hail you may see.Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Pella, Grinnell, Knoxville A new severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until noon for part of Iowa including Pella, Grinnell and Knoxville.Updated rainfall totalsSome parts of the state have seen more than 5 inches of rain as of Tuesday morning.You can see an updated list here.Flooding and storm clouds: vlog viewers share images from Tuesday's severe weatherAnkeny, Norwalk, Southeast Polk among Des Moines metro school districts closing early TuesdaySeveral Des Moines area school districts have announced early dismissals Tuesday due to severe weather.Ankeny, Norwalk, Southeast Polk and Knoxville are all among the districts to have announced early closures. You can see an updated list here.Severe thunderstorm warning in Des Moines passesThe severe thunderstorm warning in Des Moines has expired, shortly before 10 a.m.A severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect east of Des Moines, including Marshalltown.Iowa high school state golf tournament canceled due to severe weatherIHSAA has announced that round two of the 2A and 3A state golf championships in Ames has been canceled due to rain.Severe thunderstorm warning extended for Des Moines, Ankeny, MarshalltownA severe thunderstorm warning has been extended for central Iowa, including Des Moines, Ankeny and Marshalltown.The warning expires at 10:30 a.m.Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Des Moines, West Des Moines, AnkenySevere weather has arrived in the metro.A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 9:45 a.m. for much of Polk County, including Des Moines.Wind gusts up to 70 mph are possible, along with quarter-sized hail.Severe thunderstorm warnings creep toward central Iowa, Des MoinesThe latest severe thunderstorm warning includes Van Meter, Dallas Center and Winterset.It is set to expire at 9 a.m.Des Moines police warning drivers about flooded roadwaysAnother reminder to be careful on the roads this morning.Des Moines police have responded to multiple reports of vehicles stalled in a flooded roadway near the 2000 block of East Euclid.Tornado warning expiresThe tornado warning in southwest Iowa has expired. Flash flood warnings and severe thunderstorm warnings are still in effect for much of Iowa.Tornado warning in effect for southwest IowaA tornado warning is in effect for southwest Iowa, including Anita.The warning is in effect until 8 a.m.Elsewhere in southwest Iowa: a severe thunderstorm warning has been enacted for corning, Bedford, Lenox and more. That warning will last until 8:15 a.m.Severe thunderstorm warning in effect for southwestern IowaThe National Weather Service in Des Moines has enacted a severe thunderstorm warning for part of southwest Iowa, including Atlantic.The warning lasts until 7:30 a.m. Winds up to 70 mph are possible, and golf ball-sized hail could hit the area as well.Newton closes schools for the dayThe flooding issues mentioned below have also caused a rare school cancellation due to rain.Newton schools will be closed Tuesday. Some other districts, such as Collins-Maxwell, will keep buses on hard surfaces.East Marshall schools will start Tuesday in a two-hour delay.For the latest closings and delays, see our list here.Traffic impacted by flooding, standing waterBe careful on the roads Tuesday morning.We're already seeing traffic concerns around central Iowa, including blocked traffic near Newton. Watch the video below to see more.For the latest traffic updates, check here.Flash flood warning for west-central IowaSeveral counties in west-central Iowa are under a flash flood warning through 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, including parts of Boone, Dallas, Jasper, Marshall, Polk, Story, Greene and Guthrie counties. Some of those areas, which include Des Moines, have seen 1-3 inches of rain already Tuesday with another 2-3 inches possible, which the National Weather Service says could cause flash flooding around small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.Other flood warnings in effect:Until 5:15 a.m.: Parts of Hancock, Kossuth and Winnebago counties. Until 9:15 a.m.: parts of Grundy, Hardin, Butler, Franklin and Wright counties.Until 9:30 a.m.: parts of Adair, Cass, Audubon and Guthrie counties. The weather service reminds drivers: turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.Flood watch in effect most of Iowa A flood watch is also in effect for much of the state. for much of the state from 1 a.m. through 7 p.m. Tuesday.The same storms that could bring severe weather will also drop lots of rain.Many parts of Iowa already have wet ground from recent storms, so more heavy rain could lead to flash flooding in some spots overnight Monday into Tuesday.Low-lying areas, small creeks and streams, and urban areas are most vulnerable to flash flooding from heavy rainfall.Here’s how to make sure your phone provides severe weather alertsWhen storms are in the forecast, you want to make sure your mobile phone settings allow for alerts that warn you of severe weather.The U.S. Homeland Security Department says to check your phone's settings and ensure you have "Government Alerts" or "Emergency Alert Messages" enabled.You can keep track of the weather wherever you are with the vlog app: Apple | Google PlayWe'll send you weather alerts and you can track live radar right on your phone.NWS cancels Tuesday's virtual spotter trainingNational Weather Service Des Moines has canceled its Virtual Advanced Spotter Training that was scheduled for Tuesday, May 21. Share videos, photos of storm with vlogIf you capture videos or photos of this week's storms, please consider sharing them with us through this link.Weather Aware: What’s the difference between a watch and a warning?More severe weather coverageWeather Aware: Tornado safety tipsWeather Aware: How to make sure your phone provides severe weather alertsWeather Aware: Why is a clear sky bad on severe weather days?Weather Aware: What's the difference between rain and thunderstorms Understanding the Enhanced Fujita ScaleThe National Weather Service uses the Enhanced Fujita Scale, or EF-Scale, to assign tornado ratings based on estimated wind speeds and related damage.The Enhanced Fujita Scale, which replaced the earlier Fujita Scale in February 2007, categorizes tornadoes by degree of damage indicators and associates that damage with estimated wind speeds for three-second gusts.Enhanced Fujita Scale levelsEF0 (weak): 65-85 mph wind gustsEF1 (weak): 86-110 mph wind gustsEF2 (strong): 111-135 mph wind gustsEF3 (strong): 136-165 mph wind gustsEF4 (violent): 166-200 mph wind gustsEF5 (violent): Over 200 mph wind gusts

Tuesday's storms produced fierce tornadoes in southwest Iowa that caused massive damage in the Adair County town of Greenfield, where authorities confirmed multiple fatalities, and toppled several wind turbines in Adams County. Another apparent tornado blew across Highway 30 in Story County, overturning a semi-truck.

Interactive Radar | Weather Alerts | Latest forecast

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FORECAST: See the latest updates here

Tuesday was the second deadly outbreak of tornadoes in Iowa this spring. A western Iowa man died April 26 after a tornado hit the small town of Minden.

Wednesday looks to be calm after the storm. It'll be sunny and breezy in Des Moines with a high of 75 degrees, according to the latest vlog forecast.

The latest updates on Tuesday's storms:

Iowa State Patrol confirms fatalities in Greenfield

The Iowa State Patrol has confirmed multiple deaths from the Greenfield tornado and at least a dozen injuries in storms Tuesday, but it has not released specific numbers.

“We do have confirmed fatalities,” Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Alex Dinkla said at a news conference Tuesday night. He said authorities were still determining the total number.

More on the story from Greenfield.

Johnston High School closed Wednesday

Johnston school officials announced that the high school would be closed Wednesday due to storm damage.

According to a : "We ask staff to please not be in the building during this time. We will run an 8-period day on Thursday. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience and flexibility."

Check here for the latest closings.

Disaster proclamation for 15 Iowa counties

A disaster proclamation has been authorized by Gov. Kim Reynolds for 15 counties impacted by Tuesday's devastating severe weather.

The disaster proclamation activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy Program for storm victims. The counties included in the proclamation are: Adair, Adams, Cass, Clay, Hardin, Harrison, Jasper, Kossuth, Marshall, Montgomery, Page, Palo Alto, Pottawattamie, Tama, and Warren counties.

More than 500 people without power in Story County following tornado

Damage to homes, downed powerlines and debris are keeping members of Story County law enforcement agencies and utility crews busy Tuesday evening following a tornado that the Story County Emergency Management team says hit .

Story County Emergency Management says a tornado hit the areas of Cambridge, Nevada, and Colo late Tuesday afternoon. The management team, as well as the Story County Sheriff’s Office, are asking people to stay at home in an effort to avoid areas where there is a lot of damage.

Alliant Energy tells vlog there are a little more than 580 customers without power in the Nevada-Maxwell-Huxley area. A spokesperson says Alliant crews are out there assessing the damage and will work on restoration efforts as soon as possible.

“I expect there’s going to be a heavy presence with the utility companies,” said Capt. Nicholas Lennie with the Story County Sheriff’s Office. “I think that’s where the focus is going to be now that we have everybody checked on.”

Story County Emergency Management says people in need of help or shelter can reach out to the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For any updates, Story County Emergency Management is directing people to the , the , and other places.

Northern Polk County sustains damage from tornadoes

Homes north of Elkhart near White Oak in northern Polk County were damaged by storms Tuesday evening.

Polk County Emergency Management said multiple people were displaced due to the level of devastation. On the ground, vlog reporters witnessed downed trees and powerlines, shrapnel and debris scattered for hundreds of feet throughout the area, as well as roofs and walls ripped off of homes.

Drone video shows destruction, path of Greenfield, Iowa tornado


More coverage of the May 21, 2024 storms:

Wild video shows apparent tornado topples truck on Nevada, Iowa roadway

This traffic camera footage shows an apparent tornado blowing across Highway 30 near Nevada in Story County.

Widespread damage in Greenfield

Camille Blair said the Greenfield Chamber of Commerce office where she works closed around 2 p.m. ahead of the storm, the Associated Press reports. She emerged from her home in the Adair County town of about 2,000 people to describe widespread damage and scattered debris.

“There’s a pretty significant roof damage to several houses that I know will need whole new roofs," she said. "And I can see from my house it kind of went in a straight line down the road.”

Iowa State Patrol spokesman Sgt. Alex Dinkla said multiple people were injured in Greenfield, but didn’t know the extent of the injuries. Adair County Hospital in town was damaged and has been evacuated, according to a Mercy One spokesperson.

WATCH: Greenfield business owner says 'We will rebuild the community together'

Polk County now under tornado warning

Parts of Polk County, as well as portions of Madison, Jasper and Warren counties, are under a tornado warning until 5:15 p.m.

Hazards in the storm include possible tornadoes and half dollar-sized hail, according to the National Weather Service, which says radar is indicating rotation.

Everyone in this area should find a safe space and take cover.

Thousands without power in central Iowa

Nearly 25,000 MidAmerican Energy customers were without power in central Iowa as of 7 p.m. Tuesday. Nearly 3,000 were without power in the Fort Dodge area and more than 13,000 were without power in the Waterloo area.

You can .

Iowa high school girls regional soccer delays, postponements

The severe weather moving from southwest Iowa into the metro Tuesday afternoon has led state athletic officials to adjust or postpone regional girls soccer matches. See a full list of those schedule changes.

Polk County now under severe thunderstorm warning

Polk County is included on a severe thunderstorm warning that's in effect through 5:15 p.m. More counties included are Lucas, Decatur, Story, Madison, Union, Boone, Clarke, Dallas and Warren.

There's a large line of severe thunderstorms from Granger to Grand River, moving northeast at 60 mph. Hazards include large hail and damaging wind.

Tornado confirmed in Madison County

The National Weather Service says a tornado was confirmed just after 4 p.m. over Macksburg in Madison County, moving northeast at 45 mph.

Tornado topples wind turbines in southwest Iowa

A tornado that blew through Adams County downed at least 3 wind turbines, according to vlog meteorologist Zane Satre, who was chasing storms Tuesday with vlog photographer Robbie Rissman.

The remains of a tornado-damaged wind turbine touch the ground in a field, Tuesday, May 21, 2024, near Prescott, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Charlie Neibergall
The remains of a tornado-damaged wind turbine touch the ground in a field, Tuesday, May 21, 2024, near Prescott, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Tornado safety tips

If you are in a home, small building, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center or high-rise building:

  • Go to a pre-designated area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of a small interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.
  • If you are in a pickup line at your child’s school, get inside the building as quickly as possible.
  • In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
  • Make sure you are wearing sturdy shoes.
  • Do not open windows.

If you are in a mobile home, manufactured office building or camper:

  • Get out immediately and go to a pre-identified location such as the lowest floor of a sturdy nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.

If you are not in a sturdy building, there is no single research-based recommendation for what last-resort action to take because many factors can affect your decision.

Possible actions (which do not guarantee safety) include:

  • Immediately get into a vehicle, buckle your seat belt and try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter. If your vehicle is hit by flying debris while you are driving, pull over and park.
  • Take cover in a stationary vehicle. Put the seat belt on and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or cushion if possible.
  • Lie in an area noticeably lower than the level of the road and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or cushion if possible.

Photo shows hail that fell in Creston

Creston hail
Tanner Royster
Tanner Royster shared this photo of hail that fell Tuesday afternoon in Creston.

Confirmed tornado in Union County

The National Weather Service says a tornado was confirmed over Kent, about 8 miles south of Creston in Union County, around 3:40 p.m. The storm was moving northeast at 65 mph, and also included ping pong ball-sized hail.

Separate flash flood warnings in western Iowa, Iowa County

A flash flood warning is in effect for Iowa County through 6:45 p.m.

Another flash flood warning is in effect through 9 p.m. for several counties in western Iowa, including Adair, Cass, Audubon, Carroll, Crawford, Greene and Guthrie.

MidAmerican power outages

Nearly 5,000 MidAmerican Energy customers were without power as of 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, including more than 2,100 in the Des Moines area and another 1,800 in the Fort Dodge area.

You can .

NWS confirms tornado near Corning

The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado near Corning just after 3 p.m., moving northeast at 60 mph. A tornado warning for the area, including Cass, Union, Adams and Adair counties, is in effect until 3:45 p.m.

This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.
Corning tornado
Chad Pashek
Chad Pashek shared this photo of a tornado north of Corning on May 21, 2024.

Spotters confirm tornado near Red Oak

A tornado warning for parts of Montgomery and Page counties in western Iowa is in effect until 3:30 p.m. A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Essex, in Page County, moving northeast at 50 mph.

According to the National Weather Service, a tornado was confirmed by spotters just west of Red Oak. Everyone in this area should find a safe space and take cover.

WATCH: Tornado spotted near Red Oak

Red Oak tornado courtesy of Amber Oldham

Red Oak tornado courtesy of Manda Garrison

Red Oak tornado courtesy of Miranda Meier

Power outages in central Iowa

More than 2,100 MidAmerican Energy customers were without power as noon Tuesday. The majority of those outages — about 1,700 — are on the east side of Des Moines and unincorporated Polk County between the city and Altoona.

Just over 400 in Des Moines were still without power shortly after 2 p.m., while more than 1,700 were without power in the Council Bluffs area.

You can .

Tornado watch goes into effect for all of Iowa

The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for the entire state.

The watch lasts until 9 p.m. Tuesday night for most of the state. Polk, Story, Dallas and every other central Iowa county are .

This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

Western Iowa on storm watch soon

Strong wind gusts, very large hail and tornadoes are all possible in this next batch of severe weather, which is set to reach western Iowa in the next hour, according to the National Weather Service.

A tornado watch will likely be needed soon for central and eastern Iowa, too.

This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.
This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

Des Moines joins school districts closing early Tuesday

Des Moines joins Ankeny, Southeast Polk and other metro school districts in closing two hours early Tuesday.

Elementary schools will dismiss at 12:40 p.m. while middle and high schools will be out at 1:25 p.m. Evening activities are also canceled.

Check here for the latest closings.

Tennis ball-sized hail possible east of Des Moines

A severe thunderstorm warning near Montezuma could produce tennis ball-sized hail, according to the National Weather Service in Des Moines.

Watch the video below to see the latest updates from meteorologist Trey Fulbright.

What is ‘gorilla hail'?

The term "gorilla hail" has been thrown around this spring as storms criss-crossed the Midwest, but it's not exactly scientific.

“Gorilla hail” is a term coined by Reed Timmer, a storm chaser who calls himself an extreme meteorologist, according to AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alex Sosnowski. Some have started using the description for large hail, 2 inches in diameter or bigger.

Traditionally, common objects like peas and golf balls and softballs have been used to describe the hail you may see.

hail sizes
Hearst Owned
Some large hail is possible in the storms expected to blow across Iowa this week. Here’s a size comparison.


Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Pella, Grinnell, Knoxville

A new severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until noon for part of Iowa including Pella, Grinnell and Knoxville.

Updated rainfall totals

Some parts of the state have seen more than 5 inches of rain as of Tuesday morning.

You can see an updated list here.

Flooding and storm clouds: vlog viewers share images from Tuesday's severe weather

Ankeny, Norwalk, Southeast Polk among Des Moines metro school districts closing early Tuesday

Several Des Moines area school districts have announced early dismissals Tuesday due to severe weather.

Ankeny, Norwalk, Southeast Polk and Knoxville are all among the districts to have announced early closures. You can see an updated list here.

Severe thunderstorm warning in Des Moines passes

The severe thunderstorm warning in Des Moines has expired, shortly before 10 a.m.

A severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect east of Des Moines, including Marshalltown.

Iowa high school state golf tournament canceled due to severe weather

IHSAA has announced that round two of the 2A and 3A state golf championships in Ames has been canceled due to rain.

This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

Severe thunderstorm warning extended for Des Moines, Ankeny, Marshalltown

A severe thunderstorm warning has been extended for central Iowa, including Des Moines, Ankeny and Marshalltown.

The warning expires at 10:30 a.m.

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Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny

Severe weather has arrived in the metro.

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 9:45 a.m. for much of Polk County, including Des Moines.

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Wind gusts up to 70 mph are possible, along with quarter-sized hail.

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Severe thunderstorm warnings creep toward central Iowa, Des Moines

The latest severe thunderstorm warning includes Van Meter, Dallas Center and Winterset.

It is set to expire at 9 a.m.

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Des Moines police warning drivers about flooded roadways

Another reminder to be careful on the roads this morning.

Des Moines police have responded to multiple reports of vehicles stalled in a flooded roadway near the 2000 block of East Euclid.

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Tornado warning expires

The tornado warning in southwest Iowa has expired. Flash flood warnings and severe thunderstorm warnings are still in effect for much of Iowa.

Tornado warning in effect for southwest Iowa

A tornado warning is in effect for southwest Iowa, including Anita.

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The warning is in effect until 8 a.m.

Elsewhere in southwest Iowa: a severe thunderstorm warning has been enacted for corning, Bedford, Lenox and more. That warning will last until 8:15 a.m.

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Severe thunderstorm warning in effect for southwestern Iowa

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has enacted a severe thunderstorm warning for part of southwest Iowa, including Atlantic.

The warning lasts until 7:30 a.m. Winds up to 70 mph are possible, and golf ball-sized hail could hit the area as well.

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Newton closes schools for the day

The flooding issues mentioned below have also caused a rare school cancellation due to rain.

Newton schools will be closed Tuesday. Some other districts, such as Collins-Maxwell, will keep buses on hard surfaces.

East Marshall schools will start Tuesday in a two-hour delay.

For the latest closings and delays, see our list here.

Traffic impacted by flooding, standing water

Be careful on the roads Tuesday morning.

We're already seeing traffic concerns around central Iowa, including blocked traffic near Newton. Watch the video below to see more.

For the latest traffic updates, check here.

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Flash flood warning for west-central Iowa

Several counties in west-central Iowa are under a flash flood warning through 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, including parts of Boone, Dallas, Jasper, Marshall, Polk, Story, Greene and Guthrie counties.

Some of those areas, which include Des Moines, have seen 1-3 inches of rain already Tuesday with another 2-3 inches possible, which the National Weather Service says could cause flash flooding around small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

Other flood warnings in effect:

  • Until 5:15 a.m.: Parts of Hancock, Kossuth and Winnebago counties.
  • Until 9:15 a.m.: parts of Grundy, Hardin, Butler, Franklin and Wright counties.
  • Until 9:30 a.m.: parts of Adair, Cass, Audubon and Guthrie counties.

The weather service reminds drivers: turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.

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Flood watch in effect most of Iowa

A flood watch is also in effect for much of the state.

for much of the state from 1 a.m. through 7 p.m. Tuesday.

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Flood Watch in effect for much of Iowa Tuesday.

The same storms that could bring severe weather will also drop lots of rain.

Many parts of Iowa already have wet ground from recent storms, so more heavy rain could lead to flash flooding in some spots overnight Monday into Tuesday.

Low-lying areas, small creeks and streams, and urban areas are most vulnerable to flash flooding from heavy rainfall.

Here’s how to make sure your phone provides severe weather alerts

When storms are in the forecast, you want to make sure your mobile phone settings allow for alerts that warn you of severe weather.

The U.S. Homeland Security Department says to check your phone's settings and ensure you have "Government Alerts" or "Emergency Alert Messages" enabled.

You can keep track of the weather wherever you are with the vlog app: |

We'll send you weather alerts and you can track live radar right on your phone.

NWS cancels Tuesday's virtual spotter training

National Weather Service Des Moines has canceled its Virtual Advanced Spotter Training that was scheduled for Tuesday, May 21.

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Share videos, photos of storm with vlog

If you capture videos or photos of this week's storms, please consider sharing them with us through this link.

Weather Aware: What’s the difference between a watch and a warning?

More severe weather coverage

Weather Aware: Tornado safety tips

Weather Aware: How to make sure your phone provides severe weather alerts

Weather Aware: Why is a clear sky bad on severe weather days?

Weather Aware: What's the difference between rain and thunderstorms


Understanding the Enhanced Fujita Scale

The National Weather Service uses the Enhanced Fujita Scale, or EF-Scale, to assign tornado ratings based on estimated wind speeds and related damage.

The Enhanced Fujita Scale, which replaced the earlier Fujita Scale in February 2007, categorizes tornadoes by degree of damage indicators and associates that damage with estimated wind speeds for three-second gusts.

Enhanced Fujita Scale levels

  • EF0 (weak): 65-85 mph wind gusts
  • EF1 (weak): 86-110 mph wind gusts
  • EF2 (strong): 111-135 mph wind gusts
  • EF3 (strong): 136-165 mph wind gusts
  • EF4 (violent): 166-200 mph wind gusts
  • EF5 (violent): Over 200 mph wind gusts