The Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the risk for severe thunderstorms Monday afternoon to enhanced, or level 3 / 5.
Early this morning a large complex of strong storms is ongoing in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. This complex is expected to continue moving east through the remainder of the morning and will likely intensify as it reaches eastern Iowa just after the noon hour.
Before the storms arrive locally, strong instability will be building providing more than enough fuel for storms to continue strengthening as they head into northwest Illinois just after 1pm.
Damaging wind gusts in excess of 70 MPH will be the highest threat with these storms as they push through early this afternoon. However, torrential rainfall and an isolated tornado or two cannot be ruled out.
Take the time now to secure any loose outdoor objects that may be vulnerable to the strong winds. Make sure you have a way to receive warnings and be prepared to take action should one be issued for your area.
