Officials: Severe thunderstorms hit central Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Weather officials say a line of severe thunderstorms and high wind are affecting central Iowa, and thousands are without power.

The National Weather Service says a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for the area, including Polk County and surrounding counties.

Meteorologist Kurt Kotenberg says winds from the storms could reach up to 70 mph. The system is headed northeast toward Ankeny, Elkhart, Altoona and Bondurant.

Kotenberg says dime-size hail has been reported in Johnston, and tree limbs have fallen in virtually every street in Adel.

More than 16,600 MidAmerican Energy customers are without power. A majority are in the Des Moines area.