Extreme Fire Weather Concerns; Severe Thunderstorms from the Plains to Mississippi Valley

Extremely critical fire weather concerns for portions of the southern High Plans as strong wind and very dry conditions could result in rapid spread of any fires. Meanwhile, severe thunderstorms are expected once again across areas of the Central and Southern Plains, then spreading in the Mississippi Valley regions on Monday. Damaging winds, very large hail and strong tornadoes are possible. Read More >

Latest Forecast

Current Conditions
Staying Safe

Current Watches, Warnings, and Advisories

A Wind Advisory means that sustained winds of 30 mph for one hour and/or frequent gusts of at least 45 mph are occurring or expected within the next 36 hours. These winds will make it difficult to drive high profile vehicles. Small, unsecured objects may be blown around by these winds.

A High Wind Watch means that sustained winds of 40 mph for one hour and/or frequent gusts of at least 58 mph are expected within the next 12 to 48 hours. Check to make sure all loose objects outside are secured. Plan to postpone any unnecessary driving during this time since these winds will make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. These winds may damage trees, power lines and small structures.

A High Wind Warning means that sustained winds of 40 mph for one hour and/or frequent gusts of at least 58 mph are occurring or expected within the next 36 hours. Ensure that all objects outside are secured. Refrain from any unnecessary driving during this time since these winds will make driving very difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Winds this strong may damage trees, power lines and small structures.

Latest Forecast



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2 Day Hourly Wind Speed and Wind Gust Graphs

Des Moines
Waterloo
Mason City
Estherville
Fort Dodge
Ames
Marshalltown
Atlantic
Lamoni
Ottumwa

Current Conditions


Current Surface Map (Temperature, Dew Point, Winds, and Weather) - How to Decode Wind Charts	Highest Wind Gusts Recorded Today
Maps Courtesy of the Iowa Environmental Mesonet

Staying Safe

Below is a listing of ways you can reduce the inconvenience or damage done by strong winds:

If strong winds are forecast, ensure that all lightweight or loose objects on your property (grills, patio furniture, trash cans, small toys, etc.) are secured or brought indoors.
Strong winds make driving high profile vehicles very difficult and sudden wind gusts can cause one to lose control of these vehicles. Pay extra attention to the road if you must drive a high profile vehicle and be prepared for sudden changes in the wind. Try not to drive on roads that are perpendicular to the wind direction (ex. N-S roads with a W-E wind).
Remove dead or rotting trees on your property long before a high wind event. Weak trees can fall over in even a moderately strong wind and possibly damage structures and take out power lines.

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Extreme Fire Weather Concerns; Severe Thunderstorms from the Plains to Mississippi Valley

Wind Information Page

2 Day Hourly Wind Speed and Wind Gust Graphs