Iowa Tornado Warning | Effective 05/18/2026 17:09

Headline: 
Tornado Warning issued May 18 at 7:09PM CDT until May 18 at 7:30PM CDT by NWS Des Moines IA
Event: 
Tornado Warning
Urgency: 
Immediate
Effective: 
May 18, 2026 - 5:09pm
Expires: 
May 18, 2026 - 5:30pm
Description: 
At 709 PM CDT, a confirmed tornado was located over Mount Ayr, moving northeast at 45 mph. HAZARD...Damaging tornado and half dollar size hail. SOURCE...Emergency management confirmed tornado. IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely. This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of central Ringgold County, including the following locations... Delphos, Mt Ayr Municipal Airport, and Benton.
Instruction: 
To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
Area Description: 
Ringgold, IA
Forcast Office: 
NWS Des Moines IA