Alert: Iowa Braces for a Major Storm System, Here’s What You Need to Know!

Iowa is in for a dramatic weather swing this week as the state shifts from unseasonably warm temperatures to the risk of severe storms. If you’ve been enjoying the spring-like warmth, don’t get too comfortable—because strong winds, heavy rain, and even the potential for tornadoes are on the horizon.

Unseasonable Warmth—But Not for Long

It’s been a beautiful stretch of weather across Iowa, with sunny skies and temperatures much warmer than usual for March. Des Moines reached 67°F (19°C) today, while Cedar Rapids hit 59°F (15°C), and Iowa City enjoyed a mild 54°F (12°C). But this warmth won’t last. A strong cold front is moving in, and it will bring big changes to the state over the next 48 hours.

Thursday’s Cold Front Brings Cooler Air & Scattered Showers

By Thursday, March 13, the first signs of unstable weather will start to appear.

• Des Moines will see temperatures near 74°F (24°C), making it one of the warmest March days in recent years.
• Cedar Rapids will warm up to 66°F (19°C), while Iowa City will see a high of 59°F (15°C).
• Clouds will increase, and scattered showers may develop in the afternoon.

While Thursday won’t bring severe weather, it will set the stage for a much more dangerous system arriving Friday.

Friday Night’s Storms Could Turn Severe

On Friday, March 14, temperatures will spike again, and with that warmth comes increasing instability in the atmosphere. This could lead to a major severe weather event Friday night into Saturday morning.

• Des Moines will hit 76°F (24°C) but expect gusty winds and storms by evening.
• Cedar Rapids and Iowa City will both warm into the low 70s, but conditions will deteriorate quickly after dark.
• A line of strong to severe thunderstorms is expected to develop late Friday afternoon into the night.

Storm Threats: What Could Happen?

Meteorologists warn that these storms could be intense, bringing:

• Damaging winds over 60 mph
• Large hail up to the size of golf balls
• Heavy rain, leading to possible flash flooding
• A chance of isolated tornadoes, particularly in central and eastern Iowa

How to Stay Safe

• Have a weather alert system ready – Make sure you have a way to receive storm warnings overnight.
• Secure outdoor objects – High winds could send patio furniture, garbage cans, and decorations flying.
• Be ready for power outages – Charge devices and have backup batteries in case of blackouts.
• Avoid flooded roads – Heavy rain could make travel dangerous, especially in low-lying areas.

Looking Ahead: Much Colder by Saturday

Once the storms clear out early Saturday, temperatures will plummet. Highs will struggle to reach the mid-40s, and overnight lows will dip near freezing. The week ahead looks much cooler, with highs staying in the 40s and 50s, a stark contrast to this week’s warm spell. This week’s wild temperature swings and severe storms serve as a reminder that March weather in Iowa can be anything but predictable. Stay weather-aware, stay prepared, and don’t be caught off guard!