Des Moines, IA – Des Moines and Waterloo experienced one of their warmest and driest Septembers in 2024. Both cities ranked in the top 10 for temperature and precipitation records, with highs reaching 91°F in Des Moines and 93°F in Waterloo. These statistics mark 2024 as one of the warmest years on record, continuing through the first three quarters of the year.
According to the National Weather Service, Des Moines saw the 7th-warmest and 6th-driest September in its climate history. Waterloo recorded its 9th-warmest and 2nd-driest September. The October forecast shows warmer and drier-than-average conditions, further elevating fire risks across the region.
Today, a cold front brought cooler temperatures with highs reaching the upper 60s, 20 degrees lower than recent days. However, the cool spell is expected to be short-lived. Warmer and drier weather will return by Wednesday, bringing temperatures back to the 70s and 80s through the weekend. Farmers are especially warned to monitor fire conditions as the dry weather could significantly impact crops.
