Severe Tornado Threat Looms Over Central Iowa

Tornado Activity Reported Near Ames, Iowa

On Thursday evening, a tornado was confirmed near Ames, Iowa, as multiple tornado warnings were issued for central Iowa, affecting regions such as Des Moines, West Des Moines, and Ankeny. The National Weather Service in Des Moines reported that the tornado was spotted over Huxley, approximately 7 miles south of Ames, at 7:38 PM CDT, moving northeast at a speed of 45 mph. Authorities indicated that this tornado was causing damage, with law enforcement confirming its presence on the ground. The storm was anticipated to affect areas including Ames, Nevada, and Cambridge shortly thereafter.

Officials warned that flying debris could pose significant risks to individuals without adequate shelter, particularly mobile homes, which were at high risk of destruction. Damage to roofs, vehicles, and trees was also expected. The warning encompassed parts of northeastern Polk, southwestern Story, and southeastern Boone counties, specifically along Interstate 35 between mile markers 98 and 118.

In a separate alert issued at 7:39 PM CDT, meteorologists cautioned about another severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado near the Jordan Creek Town Center, moving northeast at 40 mph. This storm also presented a risk of quarter-sized hail and potential tornado development. The second warning affected a broad area, including Des Moines, West Des Moines, Urbandale, Johnston, Clive, Windsor Heights, and Ankeny, with impacts expected between 7:45 PM and 8:00 PM. Additional locations at risk included Merle Hay Mall, Valley West Mall, Drake Stadium, Principal Park, and the Iowa Events Center.

The National Weather Service urged residents to seek immediate shelter, highlighting that tornadoes can be challenging to spot at night and advising against waiting for visual confirmation before taking cover.