Iowa Weather Update, Heavy Rain, Strong Winds Possible Following Tornado Warnings

The National Weather Service has warned "severe weather is possible" in parts of Iowa through Thursday, following multiple tornado warnings that were in effect in the central and northeast portions of the state through early Monday morning.

According to a NWS hazardous weather outlook report for parts of central Iowa, published Monday at 2:35 a.m. CDT: "Thunderstorm chances return each afternoon and evening from Tuesday through Thursday, mainly over the southeastern half or so of Iowa. Severe weather will be possible during these times, with strong winds being the primary threat."

The agency said that while "the risk of severe weather is low," a few thunderstorms are expected in northeast Iowa on Monday morning and later tonight through early Tuesday morning.

A tweet from Iowa's NWS Des Moines early on Monday read: "The tornado threat has diminished. There's still a potential for hail and wind, but even that is diminishing as well. It may remain strong by the time it gets to DSM [Des Moines], but more likely to just be rain and rumbles of thunder."

According to the latest NWS hazardous weather outlook report for parts of central Iowa, Monday and Tuesday will be "hot and muggy," with heat index values heading towards 100 degrees (Fahrenheit) or higher in the afternoon and evening.

A Heat Advisory is in place for parts of central Iowa from Monday afternoon into Tuesday evening, the NWS added.

An NWS report on Sunday evening said highs on Monday will be in the upper 80s to lower 90s, with heat index values close to over 105 degrees. "Chances for showers and storms return Tuesday. Keep yourself cool on Monday and be prepared for the heat if you have outdoor activities planned. Do not leave children or pets in an unattended vehicle. Look before you lock!," the NWS warned.

The latest updates from the NWS follows a series of tornado warnings that were in place in parts of central and northeast Iowa through late Sunday and early Monday, including in Otho in Webster County, where a tornado was reported on Sunday evening.

According to a tweet from Iowa's WOI-DT, the NWS confirmed the tornado touched down in Otho at 11:23 p.m. local time.

Tornado warnings were also in place in the Iowa cities of Dumont, Dayton, Boxholm, Lehigh and Callender.

A flash flood warning was in place in Omaha, Nebraska's largest city, from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. local time on Sunday.

Police responded to reports of drivers being stuck in water 2-4 feet high, while some parts of downtown Omaha were impassible for emergency responders at the time.