Clouds of the Day - Weather Story - March 31, 2023

An outbreak of severe weather is expected over the midsection of the United States today, as shown on the map below. This is part of a large synoptic scale storm system forecast to cross Iowa today. To the north and northeast of the low center heavy snow is expected while east and south rain and thunderstorms will occur.

This is the outlook for severe weather today from the Storm Prediction Center.

Here is a review of the clouds that formed today over Cedar Falls, Iowa. The day started with sunshine but as the day wore on altocumulus developed followed by thunderstorms.

This morning: Altocumulus stratiformis

This morning: This was the first sign of developing clouds.

This morning: Altocumulus clouds were next as upward motion in the mid-levels and weak instability created these mid-level clouds.

Late Afternoon: Base of developing thunderstorm

Late Afternoon: Base of developing thunderstorm

Late Afternoon: Base of developing thunderstorm. We had lightning and thunder

Storm Reports: Red indicates tornadoes