DES MOINES, Iowa – A round of storms will bring the chance for large hail and even an isolated tornado this evening to western and central Iowa.

A level three out of five risk for severe weather is in place for southwestern Iowa. The rest of the state is under a level two out of five risk. Storms are expected to fire in Nebraska and move east, which is why western Iowa is under the higher severe weather threat area.

Large hail is by far the biggest threat for tonight’s storms. Some storms could also have strong winds. If moisture is higher than anticipated, the tornado threat could increase quickly, especially in western Iowa, so that is a threat that will need to be closely monitored. If current conditions stay on track, the tornado threat will be fairly low, with just an isolated tornado or two possible.

The entire state is under an elevated hail risk, but southwestern locations are where large hail is most likely. Most of western Iowa is under the “hatched” area with dashed lines, which indicates the potential for hail over two inches in diameter (hen egg-sized, which is larger than golf ball-sized hail).

A few showers and storms will fire through Thursday morning, wrapping up close to noon. Stronger storms start to fire by the late afternoon to early evening hours, by 5 to 7 p.m.. Storms advance to the east, moving into western Iowa by 7-9 p.m. Any storms that maintain their strength into the I-35 corridor will arrive around 9-11 p.m.

If you can move your cars into a covered area like a garage or carport, that may be a good idea! Stay weather aware tonight as the tornado threat could increase given high moisture amounts. We’ll keep you posted on-air and online on WHO 13 and www.who13.com.