The National Weather Service in the Quad Cities has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of southeastern Iowa and west central Illinois.
The warning includes southeastern Van Buren County and Lee County in Iowa, along with northwestern Hancock County in Illinois. The warning is in effect until 8:30 a.m. CDT.
At approximately 7:54 a.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from the Battle of Athens Campground to Sawyer and were moving southeast at approximately 45 mph.
The storms are capable of producing 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail. Radar indicated the severe weather.
Residents in the affected areas should be prepared for possible damage to vehicles from hail, as well as wind damage to roofs, siding and trees.
Communities impacted include Fort Madison, Keokuk, Nauvoo, West Point, Dallas City, Donnellson, Montrose, Bonaparte, Franklin, St. Paul, New Boston, Pilot Grove, Croton, Niota, Farmington, Houghton, Pontoosuc, Charleston, Keokuk Airport and Nauvoo State Park.
Residents should move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building for protection.
The National Weather Service also reports that torrential rainfall is occurring with these storms, creating the potential for flash flooding. Motorists are urged to never drive through flooded roadways.
Source: National Weather Service, Quad Cities
