Iowa – Lightning flickers across gray skies above Des Moines this morning as rain spreads across central Iowa. Wet pavement glistens along Interstate 35 and Interstate 80 while light thunder echoes over the metro.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, showers and scattered thunderstorms will continue through much of the day. Rain chances remain near 90 percent, with totals between 0.10 and 0.25 inches, though heavier pockets are possible under stronger cells. Temperatures climb toward 69 degrees, unusually warm for early March.
Drivers moving through downtown Des Moines and along I-235 may notice sudden bursts of rain through midday. Winds gust near 23 mph, which could push water across roadways and reduce visibility during heavier showers.
Storms gradually weaken later in the afternoon, but occasional showers may linger into the evening commute. Roads could stay slick after rainfall, especially near shaded areas and elevated ramps.
Conditions improve heading into the weekend. Clouds slowly break Saturday as cooler air filters in, keeping highs near 50 degrees across central Iowa. Winds from the northwest may gust above 20 mph, adding a brisk feel to the air.
Sunday brings a sharp turnaround. Bright sunshine and calmer winds push temperatures toward 65 degrees, offering a clear sign of early spring across Iowa. Early Sunday morning also marks the start of Daylight Saving Time, when clocks jump forward one hour at 2 a.m.
Milder air continues early next week. Monday turns sunny with highs approaching 68 degrees, making it one of the warmest days so far this season.
Another weather system may bring scattered rain by Tuesday across the Des Moines metro.
With temperatures swinging between warm afternoons and cooler nights, watch for early-spring flash freezing later this month when melting moisture refreezes on bridges and overpasses.
Traveling around Des Moines today? Let us know what weather you’re seeing in your neighborhood.
Five Day Outlook — Des Moines, Iowa
Saturday: Gradual clearing with cooler air. High 50°F.
Sunday: Sunny and mild. High 65°F.
Monday: Sunny and pleasant. High 68°F.
Tuesday: Chance of rain. High 64°F.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny with cooler air. High 54°F.
