Des Moines, Iowa – Iowa drivers face wet pavement and gusty winds this morning before summer heat becomes the bigger concern Sunday. Des Moines could see heat index values near 101 degrees as temperatures surge into the mid-90s.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, thunderstorms are crossing northern Iowa and may extend into central Iowa this morning. A few storms could become strong to severe with hail and gusty winds. However, the overall severe threat remains low.
Des Moines has a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before noon. The temperature reaches 87 degrees. South winds of 10 to 16 mph could gust to 28 mph locally.
The Hazardous Weather Outlook warns of more widespread 30 to 35 mph gusts this afternoon. Storms should fade from the area by afternoon.
Drivers on I-35, I-80 and I-235 should watch for sudden visibility changes and standing water during heavier rain. Secure lightweight outdoor items before winds strengthen.
Sunday shifts attention sharply toward heat. The high reaches 94 degrees, while heat index values could approach 101. A 20% storm chance remains between 10 a.m. and noon.
Monday gets hotter, reaching 95 degrees. A 20% thunderstorm chance develops before 1 p.m. Additional thunderstorms remain possible at times during the coming week.
Tuesday reaches 95 again, with a 20% shower chance before 1 p.m. Wednesday finally turns dry and sunny, though temperatures remain near 94.
The NWS outlook does not identify a specific tornado threat for Des Moines. Still, residents should keep weather alerts enabled while thunderstorms remain possible.
Heat becomes the sustained public-safety concern after today’s storms. Drink water, limit strenuous afternoon activity and check on people without reliable air conditioning.
More storm chances could emerge later next week as the pattern evolves. Traveling around Des Moines today? Tell us what road and weather conditions you are seeing.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa
- Today: 40% storm chance mainly before noon. High 87°F. Gusts locally to 28 mph, with broader gusts of 30-35 mph possible.
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high 94°F. Heat index near 101°F. 20% storm chance from 10 a.m. to noon.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high 95°F. 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 95°F. 20% chance of showers before 1 p.m.
- Wednesday: Sunny and hot, high near 94°F.
