Des Moines, Iowa – Holiday travelers across Iowa face potential delays Sunday night as thunderstorms sweep across the state just ahead of Labor Day. Drivers along Interstate 80 and Interstate 35 should expect slick roads, reduced visibility, and possible ponding through early Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, storms may develop again late Sunday into Labor Day, bringing brief heavy rain and gusty winds. Showers will linger into Monday morning before cooler September air arrives by the afternoon.
Storm chances remain highest in central and western Iowa, where travel could be disrupted for those returning from holiday weekend plans. Des Moines, Ames, and Ankeny could see downpours overnight, while Waterloo and Cedar Rapids face scattered showers into Monday. Drivers should allow extra time, slow down on wet pavement, and stay alert for sudden lightning strikes.
By Tuesday, drier conditions return with partly sunny skies and highs near 78 degrees. The weather shift continues midweek, with temperatures dipping into the lower 70s by Wednesday. A stronger push of cool September air will move in late week, keeping daytime highs in the 60s and overnight lows near 50.
Labor Day travelers should stay weather-aware overnight and into Monday, as additional advisories remain possible if storms intensify.
Five Day Forecast for Des Moines, Iowa
- Monday: Showers early, partly cloudy later. High 73°F, low 57°F.
- Tuesday: Slight chance of showers, otherwise mostly sunny. High 78°F, low 60°F.
- Wednesday: Showers possible. High 71°F, low 46°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, cooler. High 67°F, low 50°F.
- Friday: Sunny and crisp. High 74°F, low 49°F.
