Severe Storm Threat Increases Southward in Iowa

Strong storms, large hail, and potential tornadoes expected in parts of eastern Iowa this afternoon and evening.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:50pm

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a massive, swirling supercell thunderstorm dominating the frame, with small structures and vehicles dwarfed by the storm's towering, ominous clouds and dramatic lighting, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of the impending severe weather event.A looming supercell thunderstorm underscores the power and unpredictability of severe weather in the Midwest.Cedar Rapids Today

The National Weather Service has issued a First Alert for the potential of strong to severe thunderstorms across eastern Iowa, with the highest risk of damaging weather conditions expected in the southern portions of the TV9 viewing area. Forecasters warn that large hail up to 2 inches in diameter, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes are possible, especially south of Interstate 80 and near the U.S. Highway 34 corridor.

Why it matters

Severe thunderstorms can cause significant property damage, power outages, and pose a threat to public safety. Residents in the affected areas should closely monitor weather conditions and be prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued.

The details

The Storm Prediction Center has placed the area south of Interstate 80 in an "enhanced risk" for severe storms, with the potential for large hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes. Storms are expected to develop in the early to mid-afternoon hours and continue through the evening, with the strongest activity likely between 5 PM and 10 PM. Residents are advised to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, such as a NOAA Weather Radio and the KCRG-TV9 First Alert Weather App.

  • Storms are expected to develop in the early to mid-afternoon hours and continue through the evening.
  • The strongest storm activity is likely to occur between 5 PM and 10 PM.

The players

Storm Prediction Center

The federal agency responsible for issuing severe weather outlooks and forecasts.

KCRG-TV9

The local television news station providing coverage and updates on the severe weather threat.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and issue any necessary severe weather warnings or updates throughout the afternoon and evening hours.

The takeaway

Residents in the southern portions of eastern Iowa should remain vigilant and prepared for the potential of severe thunderstorms, large hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes this afternoon and evening. Taking shelter and having multiple ways to receive weather alerts can help keep families safe.