[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVHZX0y-D8g?hl=en&fs=1&w=425&h=349]

SEVERE WX THREATS: There is a slight risk of severe weather for today and tonight across the far western counties of the state. The main threats will be from large hail and damaging winds although an isolated tornado can’t be ruled out. The best chances for that will be just to the west. The entire state outside the far NE is under a slight risk for Friday and Friday night. The main threats then will be from large hail and damaging winds. Heavy rainfall is possible but flooding looks to be unlikely at this time

STATE FAIR: The Iowa State Fair opens today and the weather couldn’t be nicer. Partly to Mostly Sunny skies with highs around 80°. Friday will see the threat of showers and storms as discussed earlier. After some early morning shower chances Saturday, the weekend will be superb with partly to mostly sunny skies and highs around 80 once again.

POSSIBLE HEAT RETURN: The GFS Model still wants to paint another heat ridge building toward the end of the month that may bring readings back into the 90s for what likely may be the last of the summer season. We’ll have to wait and see, but if this occurs, many schools (which will be in session by then) may be releasing kids early if said schools don’t have AC (which many don’t)