As Iowans ease into the weekend, nature may have a far more dramatic plan in store. A potent spring storm system is preparing to roll across the state, bringing with it the threat of severe weather — including damaging winds, large hail, and even the risk of tornadoes from Friday through Sunday.
Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead of the storm.
The Storm Outlook:
The National Weather Service has placed much of Iowa, including Des Moines, under a Level 2 “Slight Risk” for severe weather beginning Thursday night, ramping up into the weekend. This is no ordinary spring shower — forecasters are eyeing the potential for explosive thunderstorm development, especially by Friday evening.
The Storm Prediction Center has gone a step further, labeling areas from eastern Nebraska into western Iowa with an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5). This is a serious alert that suggests storms could become more widespread and intense than usual, with hailstones possibly the size of golf balls and winds strong enough to knock down trees or power lines.
Tornado Threat: “Low — But Not Zero”
While the tornado risk remains on the lower side at the moment, meteorologists are warning it’s not out of the question — particularly Friday evening near sunset. If thunderstorms manage to become surface-based, the setup could trigger brief, fast-moving tornadoes, especially in northwest Iowa before spreading eastward.
And for Des Moines? Forecasters are urging residents not to be lulled into complacency. With shifting wind patterns and plenty of unstable air in the region, conditions could change rapidly.
Weekend Breakdown for Des Moines:
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Friday: Cloudy and cooler with a high around 57°F. Expect breezy conditions and the growing potential for evening storms.
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Saturday: A mix of clouds and sun during the day (High: 60°F), with showers developing at night — currently at a 30% chance.
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Sunday: Expect a wet and potentially stormy day, with a 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms, some of which could be severe.
What You Should Do Now:
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Charge your devices in case of power outages.
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Review your emergency plan — know where to take shelter if a tornado warning is issued.
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Stay weather-aware throughout the weekend. Storms may form suddenly and move quickly.
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Turn on weather alerts on your phone or tune in to local radio and TV stations for the latest.
This is shaping up to be a classic Midwestern spring storm setup — the kind that can go from quiet skies to sirens in minutes. Don’t get caught off guard. The Des Moines metro area and beyond need to be ready to act quickly if conditions deteriorate.
