WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Another tough night for sleeping with rain and storms moving through the area. One inch hail reports came in around Polk county, some tree branches were reported down in Audubon, and a funnel cloud was reported out west in Harlan. And we're not done yet. This afternoon has the greatest potential for severe storms between 2 and 7PM.
Today: Rain and storms this morning let up briefly during the midday hours before another round of more potent storms moves from west to east across the area. The line enters our western counties between 2-3 PM, lines up along I-35 between 4-5 PM, and exits our eastern counties between 6-7 PM. All severe hazards are possible including a few strong tornadoes, hail in excess of 2" in diameter, winds up to 80 mph, and pockets of 3-5" rain totals, which does include what has fallen in the last 24 hours. There is a chance that this morning's activity could inhibit this afternoon's potential, but err on the side of caution. Make sure you have a way to receive weather alerts.
As for temperatures, highs this afternoon top in the low 70s northwest to low 80s southeast. Keep in mind, temperatures may briefly dip in the wake of storms. Winds are also notable today from the southeast at 15-25 mph, gusting to 40 mph.
Tonight: Clouds decrease as does the wind. Lows back down into the upper 40s to low 50s.
Wednesday: There may be a stray shower, but plan on a mainly dry day under mostly sunny skies. Highs top in the low-to-mid 70s with a southwest wind at 10-15 mph. The humidity level stays in check!
Thursday: Another mostly sunny day with highs ticking up into the upper 70s to low 80s. Humidity levels remains comfortable.
Rest of the Week: Thursday night into Friday turns active with rain and storms possible, but the severe chances look low at this time. Highs remain largely in the 70s for Friday through Memorial Day Monday with slight chances for rain both Sunday and Monday. Saturday is trending drier!