The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for central Wapello County and southeastern Mahaska County until 9:30 a.m. CDT Thursday.
At approximately 8:47 a.m., radar indicated a severe thunderstorm near Kirkville, about 10 miles north of Ottumwa. The storm is moving east at approximately 35 mph and is capable of producing 60 mph wind gusts.
The National Weather Service says the strongest winds could cause damage to roofs, siding and trees.
Communities and locations impacted by the warning include Ottumwa, Ottumwa Industrial Airport, Eldon, Fremont, Agency, Kirkville, Chillicothe and Oskaloosa Municipal Airport.
Residents in the warning area are urged to take shelter immediately. For protection, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and stay away from windows until the storm has passed.
Source: National Weather Service, Des Moines
