Des Moines, Iowa – Thunderstorms will threaten central Iowa by Thursday, July 17th, bringing increased rain chances and the potential for travel disruptions by Friday night. Motorists along I-235 and through Polk County should be alert for slick roads and reduced visibility late this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, scattered showers are expected Thursday afternoon with highs reaching 75°F. Rain chances increase into Friday and Friday night, with thunderstorms likely and localized downpours possible — especially after 1 a.m. Saturday. While severe storms aren’t currently expected, brief heavy rain may impact commutes and weekend events.
Friday’s high will reach 80°F under partly sunny skies before the storm chances peak overnight. Saturday could see scattered storms mainly before 1 p.m., followed by humid, partly sunny conditions with highs around 86°F. Residents are encouraged to monitor local alerts and avoid travel during any active storms.
The unsettled pattern continues into the weekend and early next week. Storm chances persist Saturday night and Sunday, but by Monday, summer heat returns. Highs could climb to 92°F by Tuesday, July 22nd — the hottest so far this month.
What’s Next: Expect updates on possible weekend rainfall totals. More alerts may be issued if storm threats increase.
🌤 Five-Day Forecast: Des Moines, IA
- Thursday (July 17): Partly sunny, 75°F. Showers possible in the afternoon.
- Friday: High 80°F, chance of PM thunderstorms. Rain likely overnight.
- Saturday: Storms possible before 1 p.m., high 86°F. Muggy.
- Sunday: Partly sunny, slight storm chance. High near 83°F.
- Monday–Tuesday: Mostly sunny, highs 89–92°F. Hot and humid early week.
