Des Moines, IA – Central Iowa will shift from mild August days to sweltering summer heat by Friday, with highs in the low to mid-90s and heat indices pushing near 100 degrees through the weekend. The combination of high temperatures and humidity could make outdoor activities uncomfortable and potentially risky for vulnerable groups.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, Thursday will be the final day of comfortable warmth before the heat ramps up Friday afternoon. Skies will stay mostly sunny, and winds will remain light, offering ideal conditions for outdoor errands and evening events. By Friday, however, a strong ridge of high pressure will push temperatures to 90°F or higher, with the steamiest conditions expected Saturday.
On-and-off shower and thunderstorm chances return late Sunday into Monday, offering some relief from the heat but bringing the potential for localized downpours. Residents are urged to limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon heat, stay hydrated, and check on neighbors without air conditioning.
The heat is expected to persist into early next week, with additional advisories possible.
Five Day Des Moines, IA Forecast:
- Thursday: Sunny, high 85°F, low 66°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny and hot, high 90°F, low 73°F
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 94°F, low 74°F
- Sunday: Sunny early, 30% chance of storms late, high 93°F, low 72°F
- Monday: 40% chance of storms, high 89°F, low 68°F
