Severe thunderstorm warning issued as storms bring strong winds, hail to central Iowa

After a day of rain on Monday and Tuesday morning, severe conditions are popping up across Iowa.

A severe thunderstorm warning for the Des Moines metro was in effect from around 2:50 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. More storms are expected to develop through the evening and tornadoes are possible across central and eastern Iowa.

Central and eastern Iowa under tornado watch until 9 p.m. Tuesday

A tornado watch has been issued in Central and Eastern Iowa and will be in effect until 9 p.m. as thunderstorms continue to develop across the area. NWS said that threats include large hail and severe winds as well.

What does the Des Moines radar show?

Here's a look at the current National Weather Service's radar loop in Des Moines. As of 5 p.m. some severe thunderstorm warnings were still active south and east of Des Moines.

Flash flood warnings at storms dump 3 or more inches of rain in Iowa

NWS issued a flash flood warning for Indianola, Norwalk and Winterset until 10:15 p.m. Tuesday. The weather service warned that some parts of central Iowa had already received 3 inches of rain and more was likely this evening.

Pella, Knoxville and Monroe are also under a flash flood warning, issued by NWS until 10:30 p.m.

A flash flood warning was also issued for Oskaloosa, Montezuma and New Sharon until 11:45 p.m.

Motorists are reminded not to drive through flooded streets and to take caution around any rising water.

What counts as a flash flood? NWS asks for reports

NWS in Des Moines is looking for reports of flash flooding after heavy rain moved through central Iowa. IN a post on social media, the office said it considers a flash flood if there is:

• 6 inches or more of rapidly moving water
• Half hubcap depth (around 12 inches) or more of slowly moving water
• Around 3 feet or more of non-moving water which poses a threat to life or property

Much of Iowa will see high rainfall totals from Tuesday's storms

NWS reported a slight risk of excessive rainfall in much of Iowa for the rest of Tuesday and throughout Wednesday. Forecast rainfall totals are up to 2-3 inches in eastern and southern Iowa and 1-2 inches across the western portion of the state.

In a news release on Monday, NWS said the primary threats on Tuesday afternoon and evening are damaging winds, large hail, heavy rainfall and possible tornados. Urban street flash flooding is likely.

More: How much rain did we get? Here are the latest Iowa rainfall totals from Tuesday afternoon

What is a severe thunderstorm warning?

A severe thunderstorm warning means the area is experiencing or is about to experience a storm with winds of 58 mph or higher or hail an inch in diameter or larger.

How to stay safe during a severe thunderstorm or tornado

The National Weather Service has tips on how to stay safe during a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning:

• Continue to listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay updated
• If there is time, secure loose objects outside as these objects often become dangerous flying debris in high winds.
• Once in a shelter, go to your basement or an interior room away from windows.
• Cover your head and grab blankets to cover yourself with, which will protect you from flying debris.
• Postpone outdoor activities until the storms have passed.
• Remember to bring pets inside.

How to stay safe during a flash flood

NWS says that during a flood, water levels and the rate the water is flowing can quickly change. Iowans should remain aware and monitor local news, while avoiding flood waters at all costs and evacuating immediately when water starts to rise.

Here are some more safety tips from NWS :

• Stay informed: Follow local news, check the Internet and social media for information and updates.
• Get to higher ground: If you live in a flood-prone area or are in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately.
• Obey evacuation orders: If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances.
• Practice electrical safety: Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises, get out immediately.
• Avoid flood waters: Don't walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible.
• Turn around, don't drown: Do not drive into flooded roadways or around a barricade. Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed-out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, etc.

Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at vreynarodriguez@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR .

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Severe thunderstorm warning issued as storms bring strong winds, hail to central Iowa