Residents across southeast Iowa, northeast Missouri, and western Illinois are being urged to stay weather aware as an active weather pattern sets up through Monday. The National Weather Service says several rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected beginning late tonight and continuing at times into early next week.
Forecasters say isolated strong to severe storms are possible tonight, mainly south of the area, with the threat expanding Friday night across the entire region. Large hail and damaging wind gusts are the primary concerns. Friday night carries a marginal severe weather risk, or a Level 1 out of 5.
The severe weather threat increases Saturday, when stronger thunderstorms could develop late in the day and continue into the overnight hours. Most of Iowa is under a slight risk for severe weather, a Level 2 out of 5, with lower chances extending into northeast Missouri and Illinois.
The National Weather Service says Sunday into Monday could bring the most widespread and potentially significant severe weather chances, with multiple rounds of storms possible during the afternoon and evening hours each day.
Meteorologists stress there is still uncertainty regarding exact timing and locations of the strongest storms, but now is the time to prepare. Officials recommend having multiple ways to receive warnings, especially if you have outdoor plans this weekend.
And remember — when thunder roars, go indoors.