Tornado and Flash Flooding in Iowa, July 19, 2016

Name: Tornado and Flash Flooding in Iowa, July 19, 2016
Start: 2016-07-19T06:00
End: 2016-07-19T20:45
Location: Iowa

July 19, 2016 · NWS DMX · 111 events in 19 counties and zones

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 0
Property damage: $274,000
Crop damage: $301,000
Events: 111

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS DMX wrote it up.

A complex of storms worked their way across Nebraska overnight on the 18th into the 19th, eventually making their way into Iowa. As those elevated storms approached the central third of Iowa, the linear storms began to backbuild and with increasing convection behind them in association with ongoing warm air advection. Through the morning hours ample lightning was associated with the storms along with heavy rainfall around 3 inches in the Fort Dodge area and 4 to 6 inches in the Des Moines area. A number of flash flooding events were reported as a result of the heavy rainfall. During the afternoon, the storms resumed their forward propagation and increased in strength, especially across southern and southeast Iowa. Damaging winds and a couple of tornado reports were recorded across south central Iowa along with rainfall in the 1 to 3 inch range.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Des Moines, IA wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Jul 19, 5:44 AM CST, 16 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Jul 19, 5:44 AM CST, 16 minutes before

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Des Moines IA
644 AM CDT Tue Jul 19 2016

...Updated Aviation Discussion...

.SHORT TERM.../Today/
Issued at 357 AM CDT Tue Jul 19 2016

Main forecast concern was focused on timing and location of the
MCS, located over Nebraska, into the forecast area later this
morning. The overall model trends have been to slow the
progression and thus the arrival into the CWA until around 12-14z
this morning over the west to northwest. However, a couple
outliers in the hires models today as the operational HRRR and RAP
show a line of storms develop over western Iowa this morning ahead
of the main MCS. The ARW/NMM WRF, NSSL 4.0 WRF, and experimental
HRRR progress the current MCS across the northern portions of the
CWA today. This is more in line with the NAM12, GFS and ECMWF and
leaned toward the latter blend. As a result, cut back on pops for
much of the forecast area until after 12z and went completely dry
across the south today.

As far as severe weather potential today, it remains a low coverage
and low probability as the highest CAPE depicted by any model is
around 2500 J/kg via the NAM12. DCAPE is minimal and shear is weak
throughout the column today, so any severe weather (in the form of
large hail) looks to be short-lived and likely just elevated as LCL
heights range around 2000-2500 feet. Really the main focus is heavy
rain as warm layer cloud depths top 14,500 feet over northern Iowa,
PWATs as high as 2.0 inches, and decent moisture transport later
this morning into the afternoon. Certainly a potential for some
efficient rain producers, but with the low confidence in the
widespread coverage of the convection today, held off on any flash
flood headlines18 at this time.

.LONG TERM.../Tonight through Monday/
Issued at 357 AM CDT Tue Jul 19 2016

Another shortwave to top the ridge tonight, with strong theta-e
advection across central/northern Iowa this evening into the
overnight hours. This present additional chances for convection
especially as the LLJ increases late tonight and becomes oriented
into NC/NE IA and MN. High freezing levels and PWATs around 2
inches with possibility of backbuilding area of convection with
the area of theta-e advection slowly moving off to the northeast,
suggests the potential for heavy rainfall. This combined with the
fact that northern Iowa has already had some heavier rainfall over
the past 72 hours, yields the potential for flash flooding and
thus have issued a watch for tonight across the far northeastern
counties.

Focus then shifts from precip chances to the heat into Wednesday
through the end of the week. Thermal ridge to build in aloft
Wednesday into Friday as upper ridging amplifies some. H85
temperatures climb into the mid 20s C Wednesday, and upper 20s to
around 30C by Thursday. This should yield temperatures into 90s
Wednesday and mid to upper 90s into Thursday. Dewpoints also
remain in the 70s across the CWA and given the heavier rains of
the past few days, will allow them to possibly climb higher. This
will push heat index values to well above 100 Wednesday and around
110 across much of the state into Thursday. Slightly cooler
conditions for Friday, but the heat index values will still remain
around 105 to 110. Therefore with the heat being prolonged and
combine the daytime temps with the overnight temps in the mid to
upper 70s, will continue the excessive heat watch.

Cooler airmass to move into the state this weekend as the upper
ridge breaks down and an upper level trough pushes through the
northern US/SRN prairie provinces of Canada. This sends a cold
front southward through the state Saturday into Saturday night
with chances of storms and a return to more seasonal temperatures
into early next week.

&&

.AVIATION.../For the 12Z TAFS through 12Z Wednesday morning/
Issued at 637 AM CDT Tue Jul 19 2016

Expecting VFR conditions for DSM and OTM, and likely at FOD for
much of the of the forecast period. Heavy rain may impact MCW to
ALO overnight tonight and cause MVFR to even IFR conditions at
times.

&&

.HYDROLOGY...
Issued at 357 AM CDT Tue Jul 19 2016

Heavy rainfall over the past few days across NC IA and the chance
for heavy rainfall again tonight will lead to the potential for
flash flooding across portions of north central Iowa, therefore
have issued a flash flood watch for tonight through early
Wednesday. Rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches with locally higher
amounts will be possible in the watch area.

&&

.DMX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
Excessive Heat Watch from Wednesday morning through Friday
evening for Adair-Adams-Appanoose-Audubon-Black Hawk-Boone-
Bremer-Butler-Calhoun-Carroll-Cass-Cerro Gordo-Clarke-Crawford-
Dallas-Davis-Decatur-Emmet-Franklin-Greene-Grundy-Guthrie-
Hamilton-Hancock-Hardin-Humboldt-Jasper-Kossuth-Lucas-Madison-
Mahaska-Marion-Marshall-Monroe-Palo Alto-Pocahontas-Polk-
Poweshiek-Ringgold-Sac-Story-Tama-Taylor-Union-Wapello-Warren-
Wayne-Webster-Winnebago-Worth-Wright.

Flash Flood Watch from this evening through Wednesday morning
for Cerro Gordo-Hancock-Winnebago-Worth.

&&

SHORT TERM...Podrazik
LONG TERM...Beerends
AVIATION...Podrazik
HYDROLOGY...Beerends

Hazardous weather outlook, Jul 19, 3:05 AM CST, 2 hours 55 minutes before

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE DES MOINES IA
405 AM CDT TUE JUL 19 2016

IAZ004-005-015-023>028-033>039-044>050-057>062-070>075-081>086-
092>097-201000-
EMMET-KOSSUTH-PALO ALTO-POCAHONTAS-HUMBOLDT-WRIGHT-FRANKLIN-
BUTLER-BREMER-SAC-CALHOUN-WEBSTER-HAMILTON-HARDIN-GRUNDY-
BLACK HAWK-CRAWFORD-CARROLL-GREENE-BOONE-STORY-MARSHALL-TAMA-
AUDUBON-GUTHRIE-DALLAS-POLK-JASPER-POWESHIEK-CASS-ADAIR-MADISON-
WARREN-MARION-MAHASKA-ADAMS-UNION-CLARKE-LUCAS-MONROE-WAPELLO-
TAYLOR-RINGGOLD-DECATUR-WAYNE-APPANOOSE-DAVIS-
405 AM CDT TUE JUL 19 2016

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR PORTIONS OF CENTRAL IOWA.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

THUNDERSTORMS ARE POSSIBLE TODAY INTO TONIGHT. AN ISOLATED SEVERE
STORM WITH DAMAGING WINDS AND LARGE HAIL MAY OCCUR. IN ADDITION
LOCALLY HEAVY RAINFALL IS POSSIBLE.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...WEDNESDAY THROUGH MONDAY

AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FOR THE AREA.
PLEASE REFER TO THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WEBSITE AT
WEATHER.GOV/DESMOINES FOR FURTHER DETAILS.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

SPOTTER ACTIVATION IS NOT ANTICIPATED AT THIS TIME HOWEVER
RAINFALL REPORTS ARE ENCOURAGED.

IAZ006-007-016-017-201000-
WINNEBAGO-WORTH-HANCOCK-CERRO GORDO-
405 AM CDT TUE JUL 19 2016

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR PORTIONS OF CENTRAL IOWA.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

A FLASH FLOOD WATCH IS IN EFFECT FOR THE AREA. PLEASE REFER TO
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WEBSITE AT WEATHER.GOV/DESMOINES FOR
FURTHER DETAILS.

THUNDERSTORMS ARE POSSIBLE TODAY INTO TONIGHT. AN ISOLATED SEVERE
STORM WITH DAMAGING WINDS AND LARGE HAIL MAY OCCUR. IN ADDITION
LOCALLY HEAVY RAINFALL IS POSSIBLE.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...WEDNESDAY THROUGH MONDAY

A LINGERING THUNDERSTORM IS POSSIBLE INTO WEDNESDAY MORNING WITH
LOCALLY HEAVY RAINFALL. A FLASH FLOOD WATCH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL MID
WEDNESDAY MORNING FOR THE AREA.

AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FOR THE AREA. PLEASE
REFER TO THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WEBSITE AT
WEATHER.GOV/DESMOINES FOR FURTHER DETAILS.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

SPOTTER ACTIVATION IS NOT ANTICIPATED AT THIS TIME HOWEVER
RAINFALL REPORTS ARE ENCOURAGED.

MJB

The radar

The Des Moines radar (KDMX), 123 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 12:00 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

82 heavy rain, 14 flash flood, 13 thunderstorm wind, 1 tornado, 1 funnel cloud. Local standard time, as filed.

Heavy Rain, Pocahontas

When: July 19, 6:00 AM CST to 10:30 AM CST
Where: Pocahontas County, 5.13 mi W of Blanden
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.570, -94.700

Public weather station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.32 inches this morning.

Heavy Rain, Calhoun

When: July 19, 6:00 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 0.69 mi S of Rockwell City
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 42.390, -94.630

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 2.80 inches.

Heavy Rain, Guthrie

When: July 19, 6:15 AM CST to 8:15 PM CST
Where: Guthrie County, 5.17 mi NE of Monteith
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.690, -94.370

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.16 inches.

Heavy Rain, Pocahontas

When: July 19, 6:15 AM CST to 8:35 PM CST
Where: Pocahontas County, 0.86 mi NW of Westview
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.730, -94.690

Mesonet recorded heavy rainfall of 3.06 inches.

Heavy Rain, Calhoun

When: July 19, 6:25 AM CST to 10:31 AM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 3.14 mi ENE of Lohrville
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.280, -94.490

Public weather station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.01 inches this morning.

Heavy Rain, Pocahontas

When: July 19, 6:30 AM CST to 9:45 AM CST
Where: Pocahontas County, 0.86 mi SW of Rolfe
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 42.810, -94.530

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 1.6 inches from storms this morning.

Heavy Rain, Calhoun

When: July 19, 6:30 AM CST to 9:59 AM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 0.51 mi W of Manson
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.530, -94.540

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.7 inches this morning.

Heavy Rain, Pocahontas

When: July 19, 6:30 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Pocahontas County, 2.05 mi NE of Havelock
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 42.850, -94.670

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 3.60 inches total from event spanning two observation periods. End time estimated from radar.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 6:45 AM CST to 7:00 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 1.24 mi NE of Perry
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.840, -94.100

Public reported heavy rainfall of 2.25 inches event total, via social media.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 6:45 AM CST to 7:00 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 0.86 mi NE of Perry
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.840, -94.110

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 2.32 inches. End time radar estimated.

Heavy Rain, Webster

When: July 19, 6:45 AM CST to 7:59 PM CST
Where: Webster County, 3.06 mi W of Tara
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.500, -94.360

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.83 inches.

Heavy Rain, Webster

When: July 19, 7:00 AM CST to 9:40 AM CST
Where: Webster County, 2.46 mi NE of Ft Dodge
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 42.520, -94.140

CoCoRaHS observer reported heavy rainfall of 3.50 inches this morning.

Heavy Rain, Webster

When: July 19, 7:00 AM CST to 10:33 AM CST
Where: Webster County, 0.51 mi W of (Fod)ft Dodge Muni A
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 42.550, -94.190

Fort Dodge AWOS recorded heavy rainfall of 3.06 inches this morning.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:00 AM CST to 3:58 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 0.86 mi SW of Adel
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.610, -94.030

Emergency manager reported heavy rainfall of 4.60 inches.

Heavy Rain, Webster

When: July 19, 7:00 AM CST to 5:55 PM CST
Where: Webster County, 0.51 mi W of (Fod)ft Dodge Muni A
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 42.550, -94.190

Fort Dodge Regional AWOS recorded heavy rainfall of 2.44 inches.

Heavy Rain, Webster

When: July 19, 7:00 AM CST to 8:00 PM CST
Where: Webster County, 1.23 mi NW of Ft Dodge
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.510, -94.200

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.95 inches.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:00 AM CST to 8:00 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 1.03 mi E of Van Meter
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.530, -93.950

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.92 inches.

Heavy Rain, Webster

When: July 19, 7:00 AM CST to 8:15 PM CST
Where: Webster County, 2.91 mi NE of Tara
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.530, -94.260

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.68 inches.

Heavy Rain, Webster

When: July 19, 7:15 AM CST to 10:17 AM CST
Where: Webster County, 0.51 mi W of Burnside
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.350, -94.110

Public weather station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.51 inches this morning.

Heavy Rain, Webster

When: July 19, 7:15 AM CST to 10:20 AM CST
Where: Webster County, 0.69 mi S of Dayton
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 42.260, -94.070

Public weather station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.81 inches this morning.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:15 AM CST to 4:00 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 1.48 mi SSE of Shuler Mine
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 41.610, -93.870

CoCoRaHS observer reported heavy rainfall of 3.30 inches.

Heavy Rain, Boone

When: July 19, 7:15 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Boone County, 0.86 mi NW of Ogden
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 42.040, -94.040

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 2.00 inches.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 10:34 AM CST
Where: Dallas County, 3.45 mi SE of Hadden Hill
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.580, -93.790

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 2.34 inches this morning.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 12:03 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.38 mi S of Clive
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.610, -93.780

Coop observer reported heavy rainfall of 2.16 inches.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 12:30 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 3.45 mi SE of Hadden Hill
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.580, -93.790

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 3.90 inches.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 12:41 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 1.48 mi NNW of Shuler Mine
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.650, -93.890

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 2.75 inches.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 2:21 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 3.61 mi SSE of Hadden Hill
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.570, -93.810

Coop observer station recorded heavy rainfall of 3.71 inches.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 2:27 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 3.49 mi N of Shuler Mine
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.680, -93.870

Coop observer station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.72 inches.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 3:30 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 3.17 mi SSE of Hadden Hill
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 41.580, -93.800

NWS employee reported heavy rainfall of 3.53 inches event total.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 4:00 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 0.52 mi E of Cumming
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.480, -93.760

Public reported heavy rainfall of 4.89 inches so far via social media.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 4:20 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.04 mi W of New Virginia
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.180, -93.750

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 2.10 inches storm total.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 4:25 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 2.07 mi S of Hadden Hill
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.590, -93.830

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 3.23 inches event total so far.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 4:45 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 1.38 mi N of Hadden Hill
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.640, -93.830

Public reported heavy rainfall of 3.15 inches event total, via social media.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 2.76 mi S of Hadden Hill
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.580, -93.830

Public reported heavy rainfall of 4.30 inches event total, via social media.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 0.86 mi NE of Grimes
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.690, -93.790

Public reported heavy rainfall of 2.90 inches event total, via social media.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 5:15 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 2.08 mi SW of Hadden Hill
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.600, -93.860

Public reported heavy rainfall of 6 inches event total, via social media.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 5:30 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.24 mi NW of Urbandale
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.640, -93.740

Public reported heavy rainfall of 6.00 inches event total, via social media.

Heavy Rain, Boone

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 7:00 PM CST
Where: Boone County, 2.14 mi SSW of Boone
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 42.040, -93.890

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 2.12 inches. End time estimated from radar.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 8:02 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 0.52 mi W of Commerce
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.530, -93.780

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.66 inches.

Heavy Rain, Madison

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 8:33 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 5.53 mi N of Bevington
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.450, -93.800

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 4.98 inches.

Heavy Rain, Dallas

When: July 19, 7:30 AM CST to 8:34 PM CST
Where: Dallas County, 0.86 mi SE of Hadden Hill
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.610, -93.820

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.71 inches.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 1:04 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 2.08 mi SW of Norwalk
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.460, -93.710

Mesonet station 2 SW of Norwalk recorded heavy rainfall of 2.13 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 3:30 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 0.52 mi E of Windsor Hgts
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.600, -93.710

Public reported heavy rainfall of 4.94 inches today.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 3:40 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.38 mi N of Norwalk
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 41.500, -93.680

Public reported heavy rainfall of 4.83 inches, relayed by KCCI TV.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 4:00 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.24 mi NE of Dodge Fld Arpt
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.690, -93.700

Public reported heavy rainfall of 3.50 inches so far today, via social media.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 4:05 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.73 mi NW of Norwalk
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.500, -93.700

Public reported heavy rainfall of 4.00 inches with light rain ongoing. Reported via social media.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 5:54 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 0.52 mi E of (Dsm)des Moines Intl
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 41.530, -93.660

Des Moines International ASOS recorded heavy rainfall of 3.53 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 7:00 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.55 mi E of Windsor Hgts
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.600, -93.690

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 3.63 inches. End time estimated from radar.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 8:00 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 2.07 mi NE of Dodge Fld Arpt
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.700, -93.690

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.04 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 8:01 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.24 mi SE of Windsor Hgts
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.590, -93.700

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 3.25 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 8:01 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.73 mi SE of West Des Moines
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.560, -93.700

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.76 inches.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 8:15 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 2.08 mi SE of Norwalk
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.460, -93.650

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 3.23 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 8:15 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.24 mi NW of Dodge Fld Arpt
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.690, -93.740

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.86 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 7:45 AM CST to 8:33 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.24 mi NE of Windsor Hgts
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.610, -93.700

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 3.68 inches.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 8:00 AM CST to 7:30 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 3.73 mi ENE of Norwalk
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.510, -93.620

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 3.77 inches event total.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 8:00 AM CST to 7:30 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 0.69 mi S of Capitol Hgts
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.610, -93.550

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.52 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 8:00 AM CST to 8:32 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 0.86 mi NE of Johnston
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.680, -93.690

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 3.19 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 8:00 AM CST to 8:32 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 2.18 mi WNW of Des Moines
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.610, -93.660

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.86 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 8:30 AM CST to 3:30 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 0.69 mi S of Altoona
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.640, -93.470

Public reported heavy rainfall of 2.60 inches.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 8:30 AM CST to 3:40 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 0.52 mi W of Cumming
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 41.480, -93.780

Public reported heavy rainfall of 5.23 inches, relayed by KCCI TV.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 9:00 AM CST to 4:30 PM CST
Where: Marion County, Knoxville
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.320, -93.100

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 2.65 inches event total.

Heavy Rain, Jasper

When: July 19, 9:00 AM CST to 7:10 PM CST
Where: Jasper County, 2.59 mi NE of Vandalia
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.560, -93.290

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.27 inches.

Heavy Rain, Jasper

When: July 19, 9:00 AM CST to 7:48 PM CST
Where: Jasper County, 2.59 mi SW of Prairie City
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.570, -93.260

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.01 inches.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 9:00 AM CST to 8:15 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 1.7 mi WNW of Percy
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.490, -93.280

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.28 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 9:00 AM CST to 8:35 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.38 mi S of Altoona
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.630, -93.470

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.60 inches.

Heavy Rain, Polk

When: July 19, 9:00 AM CST to 8:35 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.24 mi NE of Capitol Hgts
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.630, -93.530

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.46 inches.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 9:15 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 2.19 mi ENE of Lacona
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.210, -93.340

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 3.27 inches. End time estimated from radar.

Heavy Rain, Lucas

When: July 19, 9:15 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Lucas County, 2.09 mi E of Chariton
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.020, -93.280

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 2.90 inches. End time estimated from radar.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 9:15 AM CST to 7:50 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 1.25 mi WNW of Fifield
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.440, -93.050

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.25 inches.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 9:15 AM CST to 8:35 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 0.69 mi N of Pella
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.430, -92.930

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.30 inches.

Flash Flood, Webster

When: July 19, 9:30 AM CST to 2:00 PM CST
Where: Webster County, 1.33 mi N of Ft Dodge to 1.9 mi NE of Ft Dodge
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 42.519, -94.179

Emergency Manager reported one business near downtown Fort Dodge had several feet of water inundate the building. Widespread street flooding also occurred.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 9:30 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Marion County, Columbia
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.180, -93.150

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 3.30 inches.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 9:30 AM CST to 8:00 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 0.86 mi SE of Pella
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.410, -92.920

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 2.24 inches storm total.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 9:30 AM CST to 8:00 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 2.59 mi SW of Pella Muni Arpt
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.370, -92.980

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.14 inches.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 9:45 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 2.08 mi SE of Pella Muni Arpt
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.380, -92.920

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 3.60 inches. End time estimated from radar.

Heavy Rain, Mahaska

When: July 19, 10:00 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Mahaska County, Oskaloosa
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.300, -92.650

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 2.44 inches. End time estimated from radar.

Flash Flood, Webster

When: July 19, 10:05 AM CST to 2:00 PM CST
Where: Webster County, 1.61 mi S of Clay Works to 2.01 mi NW of Roberts
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 42.457, -94.179

Iowa DOT reported both the northbound and southbound lanes of US Highway 169 were impassable due to flooding.

Flash Flood, Polk

When: July 19, 10:30 AM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.11 mi SSE of Des Moines to 1.21 mi SSE of Des Moines
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.584, -93.615

Trained spotter reported standing water in the Iowa Cubs stadium parking lot and water shooting out of storm drains 2 to 3 feet high in the area.

Heavy Rain, Warren

When: July 19, 10:45 AM CST to 8:15 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 2.14 mi SSW of Ackworth
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.340, -93.490

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.66 inches.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 11:00 AM CST to 6:00 PM CST
Where: Marion County, Knoxville
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 41.320, -93.100

Coop observer recorded heavy rainfall of 3.00 inches. End time estimated from radar.

Heavy Rain, Marion

When: July 19, 11:00 AM CST to 8:15 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 2.5 mi WNW of Dallas
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.250, -93.290

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.10 inches.

Heavy Rain, Cass

When: July 19, 11:00 AM CST to 8:35 PM CST
Where: Cass County, 1.55 mi E of Atlantic
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.400, -94.990

Mesonet station recorded heavy rainfall of 2.01 inches.

Thunderstorm Wind, Cass

When: July 19, 11:20 AM CST
Where: Cass County, 4.03 mi NNE of Anita
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 41.500, -94.730

RWIS station recorded a 63 mph wind gust.

Heavy Rain, Mahaska

When: July 19, 12:15 PM CST to 1:30 PM CST
Where: Mahaska County, 2.07 mi N of Oskaloosa
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.330, -92.650

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 3.20 inches since 1:15 pm.

Flash Flood, Polk

When: July 19, 12:24 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.3 mi NW of Ft Des Moines to 1.14 mi NNE of Ft Des Moines
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $20,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.543, -93.648

Trained spotter reported water over the road about bumper high, around 12 inches, at Fleur Drive and McKinley Ave. Also reported a stalled vehicle at SW 9th St and McKinley Ave with water over the road.

Flash Flood, Warren

When: July 19, 12:45 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.7 mi ENE of Cumming to 0.84 mi E of Cumming
Cause: Heavy Rain
Crop damage: $50,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.490, -93.740

Trained spotter reported several streets in town experienced flooding. Numerous streams also reported to be overflowing their banks, including Apple Creek. Time of impacts estimated.

Thunderstorm Wind, Warren

When: July 19, 1:00 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.04 mi W of Lacona
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.200, -93.400

Law Enforcement reported downed trees up to 24 inches between Lacona and Milo. Time and location estimated from radar. Delayed report.

Heavy Rain, Wayne

When: July 19, 1:15 PM CST to 6:15 PM CST
Where: Wayne County, 1.25 mi WSW of Humeston
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.860, -93.500

Public reported heavy rainfall of 1.87 inches event total, via social media.

Flash Flood, Marion

When: July 19, 1:20 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 0.86 mi NW of Knoxville to 0.66 mi NNW of Knoxville
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $20,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.329, -93.111

Law Enforcement reported water covering Highway 14 outside of the Knoxville Raceway. Time estimated from radar, delayed report.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lucas

When: July 19, 1:20 PM CST
Where: Lucas County, 6.35 mi NNE of Russell
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $50,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.060, -93.140

Trained spotter reported damaged brick and concrete silos, barn damage, roof damage, and tree damage. Time radar estimated.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lucas

When: July 19, 1:20 PM CST
Where: Lucas County, 6.81 mi E of Williamson
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.070, -93.140

Trained spotter reported grain bin damage, including one rolled up against another, completely removed fence posts, and tree damage. Time radar estimated.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lucas

When: July 19, 1:20 PM CST to 1:30 PM CST
Where: Lucas County, 1.04 mi E of Chariton
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.020, -93.300

Trained spotter reported estimated wind gust of 60 mph along with a few small tree limbs broken off of trees. Wind occurred between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lucas

When: July 19, 1:20 PM CST
Where: Lucas County, 1.25 mi ESE of Chariton
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $20,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.010, -93.300

Law Enforcement reported an apartment complex damaged and trees down in Chariton. Time estimated by radar.

Flash Flood, Polk

When: July 19, 1:30 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 2 mi SW of Capitol Hgts to 1.79 mi E of Des Moines
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.602, -93.580

Emergency Manager reported road closure at University Ave and Hubbell Ave due to flooding.

Tornado, Monroe

When: July 19, 1:34 PM CST to 1:38 PM CST
Where: Monroe County, 1.4 mi WNW of Melrose to 2.71 mi N of Melrose
Rating: EF0
Path length: 2.34 mi
Path width: 50 yd
Property damage: $4,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.981, -93.053

This short-lived tornado was spotted from NE of Melrose before it became rain-wrapped. Narrow damage path reported on the north side of town by law enforcement. Spotter reported tree damage along the path after the event.

Thunderstorm Wind, Monroe

When: July 19, 1:35 PM CST
Where: Monroe County, 2.41 mi NNW of Melrose
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.001, -93.051

Law Enforcement reported trees down near 527th Ave on the NE side of Melrose. Time estimated from radar, delayed report.

Thunderstorm Wind, Wayne

When: July 19, 1:37 PM CST
Where: Wayne County, 0.69 mi S of Corydon
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 40.760, -93.320

Emergency Manager reported 8 to 10 inch diameter tree limbs blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Appanoose

When: July 19, 1:43 PM CST
Where: Appanoose County, 0.52 mi W of Mystic
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.780, -92.940

Law Enforcement reported trees down in Mystic. Time and location estimated from radar, delayed report.

Heavy Rain, Wapello

When: July 19, 1:45 PM CST to 5:50 PM CST
Where: Wapello County, 6 mi WSW of Ottumwa
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.987, -92.506

Trained spotter reported heavy rainfall of 2.80 inches.

Thunderstorm Wind, Wayne

When: July 19, 1:48 PM CST
Where: Wayne County, Seymour
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 40.680, -93.120

Emergency Manager reported 8 to 10 inch diameter tree limbs down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Appanoose

When: July 19, 1:50 PM CST
Where: Appanoose County, Centerville
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.730, -92.870

Law Enforcement reported 12 inch diameter trees downed in Centerville. Time and location estimated from radar, delayed report.

Flash Flood, Madison

When: July 19, 2:00 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 3.67 mi NNE of Winterset Arpt to 3.9 mi NE of Winterset Arpt
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.415, -93.982

Emergency Manager reported road closure on North River Trail due to flooding.

Thunderstorm Wind, Appanoose

When: July 19, 2:05 PM CST
Where: Appanoose County, 1.05 mi W of Darbyville
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.820, -92.900

Law Enforcement reported that strong winds blew a law enforcement vehicle off the road.

Flash Flood, Lucas

When: July 19, 2:10 PM CST to 7:50 PM CST
Where: Lucas County, 6.01 mi NNE of Russell to 8.06 mi SSW of Russell
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $20,000
Crop damage: $100,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.057, -93.147

Law Enforcement reported water onto roadways causing road closures near 500th street and 320th Ave. Numerous other flooded minor roadways in eastern Lucas County. Time estimated from radar, delayed report.

Flash Flood, Monroe

When: July 19, 2:12 PM CST to 7:50 PM CST
Where: Monroe County, 3.41 mi W of Melrose to 3.29 mi SSE of Melrose
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $10,000
Crop damage: $50,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.979, -93.094

Law Enforcement reported water onto road near 500th Ave and highway 34, leading to road closures. Time estimated from radar, delayed report.

Flash Flood, Warren

When: July 19, 2:15 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 2.94 mi WNW of Milo to 1.73 mi E of Indianola Arpt
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.300, -93.500

Emergency Manager relayed report of road closure of 158th Ave south of Newbold St.

Funnel Cloud, Davis

When: July 19, 2:27 PM CST
Where: Davis County, 0.52 mi W of Floris
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.870, -92.330

Trained spotter reported a brief funnel formed then lifted back into clouds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Davis

When: July 19, 2:30 PM CST
Where: Davis County, 0.52 mi W of Drakesville
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.800, -92.480

Trained spotter reported estimated 60 mph wind gusts.

Flash Flood, Warren

When: July 19, 3:00 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.59 mi SE of Scotch Ridge to 1.76 mi N of Summerset
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.454, -93.548

Emergency Manager relayed road closure of 138th Ave north of Elk Horn St.

Flash Flood, Polk

When: July 19, 3:00 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where: Polk County, 1.82 mi SSE of Avon to 1.96 mi SE of Avon
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.507, -93.514

Law Enforcement reported closure of SE 52nd St/155th Ave between Highway 5 and SE 72nd Ave.

Flash Flood, Mahaska

When: July 19, 8:45 PM CST
Where: Mahaska County, 1.7 mi ESE of Evans to 1.95 mi ENE of Beacon
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $10,000
Crop damage: $100,000
Reported by: County Official
Coordinates: 41.290, -92.700

County reported that Highway 92 was flooded at MM 178 due to overflow from Muchakinock Creek.

What these are

Heavy Rain: Rainfall totals unusual for the place and season that did not produce a flood.
Flash Flood: Flooding that begins within six hours of the rain that causes it, or of a dam or levee failure or ice jam release, often with deadly speed.
Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.
Tornado: A violently rotating column of air in contact with the ground and extending from a thunderstorm, filed with its path, width and Fujita or Enhanced Fujita rating from the damage survey.
Funnel Cloud: A rotating column of cloud extending from a thunderstorm that did not reach the ground.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Iowa in 2016 Every state in 2016 This day in weather history The tornado archive for Iowa, 2016 Warnings in Iowa, July 2016

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 647451, 647509, 647540, 647548, 647452, 647445, 647446, 647511, 647518, 647521, 647527, 647444, 647453, 647489, 647507, 647529, 647530, 647538, 647448, 647449, 647492, 647510, 647454, 647456, 647458, 647459, 647480, 647482, 647486, 647491, 647495, 647496, 647499, 647500, 647501, 647504, 647505, 647519, 647535, 647545, and more.