CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Developing thunderstorms are moving into eastern Iowa this afternoon and evening with a threat for strong to severe storms. The main threat would come from gusty winds.

First warning: heavy rain possible

A strong cold front is moving from the west, which will be accompanied by extensive rain and thunderstorms later this afternoon and evening. Rainfall amounts are expected to be significant, with more than an inch likely over much of the area and even higher totals possible in some localized spots.

Once the showers and storms pass, they dissipate by Halloween morning, giving way to a noticeably cooler and windier day. Trick-or-treaters should prepare for cold conditions in the evening, as temperatures will drop and gusty winds will make it feel even colder. The Halloween evening forecast is dry, so families can enjoy their evening plans without worrying about rain, although costumes may require some layers to keep the little ones warm.

First warning: more rain is coming

Once the cold front passes, we will enter a seasonal cool pattern, with more typical temperatures of late October and early November. This period of seasonal weather will bring a brief revival before more rain and storms arrive this weekend.

In summary, it’s a week full of transitions, with a warm and breezy start giving way to a wet and windy period with possible heavy rain, followed by a Halloween cool-down. The weather should be dry but cold, and as we head into the weekend, another round of showers and storms could be on the way, keeping things active in the weather department into early November.