Radar for Severe Thunderstorm Warnings at 5:30 p.m. on 5/14/2020

While there’s no immediate threat on the horizon, a warmer trend to start the year 2024 is a reminder of the dangers of potential severe thunderstorm activity. State Climatologist Justin Glisan says the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week in Iowa is coming in the final days of March, but it’s important to understand that hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes can occur much sooner. Glisan says the recent warm trend — it was the warmest winter on record in Des Moines, coupled with increased chances for precipitation in climate outlooks, means there’s a slightly increased risk for thunderstorms to occur. Glisan reminds everyone to be prepared for what to do when severe weather occurs in their local area. Stay tuned to KNIA/KRLS, as live coverage begins for any severe thunderstorm or tornado warning in Marion and Warren Counties.