Fury Hits Fair: Iowa Storms Trigger Mass Blackouts, Chaos
Iowa Wakes Up to Wild Storms: What Happened Thursday Morning
Quick Summary: Strong storms rolled through central Iowa early Thursday, bringing heavy rain, tornado warnings, power outages, and schedule changes at the Iowa State Fair. More storms are possible tonight and Friday.
What Happened Early Thursday Morning?
Imagine waking up to loud thunder rumbling outside your window—that’s exactly what happened to many Iowans around sunrise on Thursday, August 13th. A line of strong storms swept across the state while many people were still sleeping or just starting their day.
The Warnings That Went Out
Weather experts at the National Weather Service issued several alerts to keep people safe:
- Severe Thunderstorm Warning – Covered most of central Iowa for part of the morning. This means storms with damaging winds (58+ mph) or large hail (1+ inch) were happening or imminent.
- Tornado Warning – Issued for Polk, Story, Marshall, and Jasper counties until about 7:15 a.m. This means a tornado was either spotted or indicated by radar. People in these areas were urged to take shelter immediately.
Important: A watch means conditions are right for bad weather. A warning means it’s happening NOW—take action!
Power Outages Across Central Iowa
The storms didn’t just make noise—they knocked out electricity for thousands.
| Area | Customers Without Power |
|---|---|
| Fort Dodge | 1,500+ |
| Des Moines metro | Hundreds |
| Total (MidAmerican Energy) | ~2,200 |
As of 9:10 a.m. Thursday
Check current outages: MidAmerican Energy Outage Map
How Much Rain Fell? A LOT.
Storms dumped 1 to 2 inches of rain across the Des Moines metro, with some spots getting over 2 inches in just a few hours. That’s like dumping a big bucket of water on your yard!
Top Rainfall Totals (as of ~9 a.m.)
- Norwalk: 2.70 inches
- Exira: 2.51 inches
- Indianola: 2.46 inches
- Norwalk (second report): 2.31 inches
- Des Moines Airport: 2.27 inches
- Atlantic: 2.17 inches
Full updated list: KCCI Rainfall Totals
Iowa State Fair: Opening Day Changes
The Iowa State Fair kicked off Thursday, but Mother Nature had other plans. Fair organizers announced several schedule changes due to rain and flash flooding:
Location & Time Changes
| Event | Change |
|---|---|
| Dean Avenue | Temporarily CLOSED due to flash flooding |
| Historical Walking Tour | Rescheduled to 3 p.m. today (Aug 13) |
| Opening Ceremonies | Moved to Penningroth Sale Ring at 9 a.m. |
| Twins, Triplets & More Contest | Rescheduled to Aug 23 at 9 a.m. (MidAmerican Energy Stage) |
| Dance Avenue | Rescheduled to Aug 21 at 9 a.m. (MidAmerican Energy Stage) |
| Kids’ Club | Canceled for today (Aug 13) – coupon books available at tomorrow’s event |
Fair-goer tip: Check the Iowa State Fair website or app for real-time updates before heading out!
What’s Next? Thursday & Friday Forecast
Here’s the simple breakdown of what to expect:
This Afternoon (Thursday)
- Storms break up and move out
- Easterly winds 10–20 mph
- Highs in the low 80s
- But… humidity stays HIGH → feels muggy
Tonight & Friday
- Storm chances RETURN
- Main threats: heavy rain + isolated gusty winds
- Potential for widespread 2–4 inches of additional rain over the next couple days
- Rivers and streams could rise – keep an eye on flood alerts
Through the Weekend
- Muggy 80s continue
- Storm chances linger
- Keep an umbrella handy!
Safety Checklist: What to Do When Storms Hit
- Have multiple ways to get warnings – phone alerts, weather radio, local news app
- Know your safe spot – basement, interior room on lowest floor, away from windows
- Charge devices before storms arrive
- Avoid flooded roads – "Turn Around, Don’t Drown!" (just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down; 12 inches can float a car)
- Check on neighbors – especially elderly or those with medical needs
- Report outages to your power company
- Stay informed – follow KCCI Weather or your local meteorologist
Summary
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| When | Early Thursday morning (Aug 13) |
| Where | Central Iowa (Polk, Story, Marshall, Jasper counties hit hardest) |
| Main Impacts | Tornado warnings, 2,200+ power outages, 1–2.7" rain, fair schedule changes |
| What’s Next | Break this afternoon, but more storms tonight & Friday; 2–4" more rain possible |
| Biggest Risk | Flash flooding & rising rivers/streams |
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Was there actually a tornado?
The article mentions a tornado warning (radar indicated rotation or a spotter saw one), but doesn’t confirm a touchdown. Check NWS storm surveys later today for confirmation.
Is the Iowa State Fair still open?
Yes! The fair is open—just with some events moved or rescheduled. Dean Avenue is closed due to flooding, but other areas are operating.
How long will power be out?
Restoration times vary by location and damage. Check the MidAmerican outage map for estimated restoration times for your area.
Should I be worried about flooding?
Yes. With 1–2.7" already fallen and 2–4" more possible, flash flooding and river rises are a real concern. Never drive through standing water.
What does "muggy 80s" mean?
Temperatures in the 80s°F plus high humidity (lots of moisture in the air). It feels hotter than the actual temperature because sweat doesn’t evaporate as easily. Stay hydrated!
Stay Safe, Iowa!
Keep checking KCCI.com, the KCCI app, or your favorite weather source for the latest updates. Weather changes fast—stay one step ahead!