Hail in Iowa, June 15, 1997

A very unstable air mass was located over Iowa brought in on a strong southerly flow. Surface winds were blowing from the south to southwest at 25 to 40 MPH ahead of an approaching cold front. Surface temperatures rose into the mid 80s to low 90s across the state with dew point temperatures in the mid 60s to low 70s. CAPE values were between 2000 and 3000 J/kg, with lifted indices around -5 degrees C. Thunderstorms erupted rapidly during the late afternoon and evening hours, though there quite scattered. High winds accompanied ont of the storms as it pass through Marshalltown, with a 64 MPH wind recorded at the airport there. One tornado swept southeast across Hancock and Wright Counties. The tornado went open countryside for the most part, resulting in only minor damage as it passed. One inch diameter hail also fell from the same storm as it passed near Belmond. In Hancock County, one half to three quarter inch diameter hail fell in the Kanawha area. Extensive crop damage was reported for three miles in all directions of town. Replanting was necessary in many areas. Soybeans were replanted, however it was too late to replant corn.