Residents across Des Moines, Iowa, are closely monitoring weather conditions following a round of severe thunderstorms that moved through central Iowa and prompted multiple weather warnings.
As of Wednesday, September 9, 2026, the latest information from the National Weather Service office in Des Moines does not show a confirmed active tornado warning specifically for the city of Des Moines. However, the region experienced significant severe weather activity Tuesday evening, and residents are being urged to continue monitoring official weather alerts as conditions can change quickly.
Severe Storms Move Through Des Moines Area
The National Weather Service issued severe thunderstorm warnings affecting Polk County and surrounding areas Tuesday evening. One warning issued at 6:21 p.m. CDT included Polk County and warned of wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph and quarter-size hail. Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Johnston, Clive, Altoona and several other communities were included in the warning area.
Another severe thunderstorm warning remained in effect for Polk County and nearby counties earlier Tuesday evening, with the National Weather Service reporting a severe storm near Elkhart moving east at approximately 45 mph. The warning included a threat of 70-mph wind gusts and large hail.
The storms also produced heavy rainfall. A flash flood warning was issued for Polk County and eastern Dallas County after thunderstorms produced between one and two inches of rain, with additional rainfall possible.
Was There a Tornado Warning in Des Moines?
The National Weather Service’s outlook ahead of Tuesday’s storms indicated that an isolated tornado was possible across portions of central Iowa, alongside damaging winds, large hail and locally heavy rainfall.
However, the official warning information reviewed for the Des Moines area does not confirm that a tornado warning was issued specifically for Des Moines on Wednesday, September 9.
This distinction is important because a tornado watch or severe-weather outlook is not the same as a tornado warning. A tornado warning means authorities have identified a tornado or an immediate threat of one and residents in the affected area should take shelter immediately.
Des Moines Residents Urged to Stay Alert
Even when a tornado warning is not active, severe thunderstorms can produce dangerous conditions. Strong straight-line winds can damage roofs, knock down trees and power lines, and make driving hazardous. Large hail can also damage vehicles, windows and property.
Residents should continue checking updated National Weather Service alerts, especially if additional thunderstorms develop across central Iowa.
Anyone who receives a tornado warning should move immediately to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows. Mobile homes and vehicles do not provide adequate protection from tornadoes.
Weather Conditions and Ongoing Monitoring
The National Weather Service office serving Des Moines continues to provide updated watches, warnings, forecasts and hazardous-weather information for central Iowa. Its latest information indicates that additional isolated to scattered severe storms could develop later in the week, with Friday currently being monitored for possible severe weather.
For now, there is no confirmed active tornado warning for Des Moines in the latest official information reviewed. The recent severe thunderstorms, however, demonstrate that weather conditions can become hazardous quickly across the region.
Residents should rely on official emergency alerts and National Weather Service updates rather than social-media reports when determining whether they need to take shelter.
This story may be updated as additional information becomes available from emergency officials and the National Weather Service.