Des Moines, Iowa – Central Iowa residents should prepare for a significant weather shift, with thunderstorms moving through the region this morning followed by a rapid rise in temperatures. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook, warning that heat index values could soar to around 100 degrees Fahrenheit Friday afternoon, creating a dangerous situation for outdoor activities. While the immediate threat from storms is low, brief gusty winds are possible.
According to the NWS office in Des Moines, scattered thunderstorms will affect portions of central Iowa throughout the morning hours. Following the storms, conditions will quickly transition to hot and humid weather, peaking on Friday. The heat index, which measures how hot it feels when humidity is factored in, will be the primary concern.
Residents across counties including Polk, Story, and Jasper should take precautions against the heat. Those working or spending time outdoors Friday should stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. The city of Des Moines will see a high near 94°F with a heat index of 104°F, while communities like Ankeny and Altoona will experience similar conditions.
Looking ahead, a pattern of thunderstorms will return over the weekend and into early next week. Any severe weather during this period will be assessed as conditions develop. For now, the most urgent alert is the approaching heat. Authorities advise that this level of heat can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke if precautions are not taken.
The Hazardous Weather Outlook remains in effect, and residents are urged to stay informed as conditions evolve. The focus for the immediate future is Thursday’s storms followed by the intense heat expected to blanket the area by Friday afternoon.
