Caution high winds: Severe thunderstorm, tornado warnings for Linn, Johnson Counties as powerful storms approach

Update 9:25 p.m.: As the storm rapidly moves its way northeast, the only active tornado warning is for Anamosa until 9:45 p.m.

Still, be alert. As the storm makes its transit pockets of heavy rain, hail, and high wind can still be encountered in the Gazette coverage area.

Previous coverage

The National Weather Service has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for several Iowa counties as a line of storms spanning the state makes its way eastward.

The weather service has a tornado warning in effect near Cedar Rapids until 9:30 p.m.

* At 846 PM CST, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Amana, or 7 miles east of Marengo, moving northeast at 70 mph. HAZARD...Tornado. SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation. 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.

Currently a severe thunderstorm warning is in place for Johnson and Linn Counties until 9:30 p.m.

From the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities.

These are very dangerous storms! HAZARD...90 mph wind gusts. SOURCE...Emergency Manager. IMPACT...You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged or destroyed. Homes and businesses will have substantial roof and window damage. Expect extensive tree damage and power outages.