Northwest Iowa saw its first significant severe weather outbreak of the season last night, with multiple tornadoes and large hail reported across the listening region.
The most notable tornado activity occurred in Clay and Emmet counties. Emergency officials and storm spotters confirmed a tornado on the ground just north of Webb, where Clay County Emergency Management documented the touchdown with photos and real‑time reports. Another tornado was reported roughly five miles north of Emmetsburg near rural Graettinger. While that one has not yet been officially confirmed by the National Weather Service, photographic evidence strongly supports a touchdown.
Additional funnel clouds were reported southwest of Graettinger and south of Ayrshire as storms tracked northeast between 5:30 and 8 p.m. In total, five tornado warnings were issued in the listening area.
Hail was also widespread. Reports ranged from pea‑size to golf‑ball size, with the largest stones falling in Cherokee and O’Brien counties. Quarter‑size hail was reported around Peterson and Webb, and penny‑size hail was noted near Arnolds Park.
Despite the intensity of the storms, there were no immediate reports of injuries or significant damage. The National Weather Service will conduct storm surveys today to determine official tornado ratings and track details.
