The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma has posted a MODERATE risk for severe weather for portions of Northwestern Iowa for later tonight with an elevated risk beside it. An approaching upper trough moving into the area, combined with modest daytime heating and low level moisture will likely create an unstable atmosphere, supporting strong to severe thunderstorms across the plains and Upper Mississippi Valley later this afternoon.

As the moisture begins to increase across the area, storms will really begin to fire around the region. Large hail, damaging winds, and an isolated tornado are all possible across the area. The primary threat is damaging winds, especially if a derecho can develop. Due to this reason the SPC has opted in to add a 45% chance of damaging winds, the second to highest probability on the map, for portions of Northwestern Iowa.

This could be a very dangerous situation for Northern Iowa later this afternoon. Stay tuned to the Iowa Weather Network for the very latest information. Live coverage is also possible as we go into tonight.