SHORT WINDOW FOR SEVERE STORMS...

The Storm Prediction Center has issued a severe thunderstorm watch until 6:00 PM for a small part of eastern Iowa and much of western Illinois.

A strong low pressure situated east of Iowa City will drive a potent cold front quickly east during the afternoon. Effective shear and instability will be sufficient for strong thunderstorms some of which could produce winds up to 70 mph. An isolated tornado is even possible. The greatest risk will be from the Mississippi River east into Illinois.

A significant temperature contrast exists that is fueling the set-up with snow falling in NW Iowa and temperatures in the mid 20s. Meanwhile parts of SE Iowa and WC Illinois are in the 70s.

As the front zips east the threat of any strong storms ends in eastern Iowa between 3-4 PM and quickly ends in Illinois by 5-6 PM. Rains will end early this evening from west to east followed by much colder temperatures.

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