IOWA — A tornado watch has been issued for 31 counties across eastern and southern Iowa and remains in effect until 3 p.m. CDT Thursday, according to the National Weather Service and the Storm Prediction Center.
The watch includes Appanoose, Benton, Buchanan, Cedar, Clinton, Davis, Delaware, Des Moines, Dubuque, Henry, Iowa, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Jones, Keokuk, Lee, Linn, Louisa, Lucas, Mahaska, Marion, Monroe, Muscatine, Poweshiek, Scott, Van Buren, Wapello, Washington and Wayne counties.
A tornado watch means atmospheric conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes, as well as severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds and large hail. Residents in the affected counties are encouraged to remain alert and monitor the latest weather information throughout the day.
The watch was issued by the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, at 7:30 a.m. Thursday as strong to severe thunderstorms moved across portions of Iowa and the Midwest.
Officials recommend that residents have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and be prepared to move to a sturdy shelter if tornado warnings are issued. A tornado warning indicates a tornado has been detected by radar or observed and requires immediate action.
The tornado watch remains in effect until 3 p.m. CDT unless it is canceled or replaced by additional weather advisories.
