Tornado Risk Upgraded Across Southern Iowa as Damaging Winds and Severe Storms Threaten Region

The tornado risk has been upgraded to 5% across parts of southern Iowa for this afternoon and evening as a mesoscale convective vortex, or MCV, is expected to move through the region.

Forecasters say the main threat will be damaging winds, but a few tornadoes will also be possible as storms strengthen.

The elevated tornado risk means some areas now have a greater chance of seeing rotating thunderstorms capable of producing brief tornadoes.

Residents across southern Iowa are urged to remain alert through the evening and have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings.

Anyone in the affected area should be prepared to move quickly to a sturdy shelter if a Tornado Warning is issued.