Des Moines, IA – Strong and potentially disruptive winds are expected to sweep across Des Moines and much of Iowa on Thursday, prompting a widespread Wind Advisory as gusts climb high enough to impact travel, utilities, and outdoor objects.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Wind Advisory remains in effect from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST Thursday for much of central and western Iowa, including the Des Moines metro. West winds of 25 to 35 miles per hour are forecast, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph at times.
The advisory covers a large portion of the state, including Polk, Dallas, Story, Boone, Greene, Carroll, Webster, Hamilton, Warren, Madison, Guthrie, Cass, Adair, Union, Clarke, Decatur, and Ringgold counties, along with parts of north-central, northeast, and south-central Iowa. Cities expected to be affected include Des Moines, Waukee, Norwalk, Ames, Boone, Fort Dodge, Carroll, Perry, Marshalltown, Waterloo, and Mason City.
Forecasters warn that gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects, including holiday decorations, trash bins, and lightweight outdoor furniture. Small tree limbs may be blown down, and isolated power outages are possible where winds interact with weakened trees and power lines.
Travel may become difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles such as semi-trucks, RVs, delivery vans, and vehicles towing trailers. Drivers are urged to use extra caution on open highways and north-south oriented roadways where strong crosswinds may develop.
Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor items before winds increase Thursday morning and to remain weather-aware throughout the day. Winds are expected to gradually diminish Thursday evening, though breezy conditions may linger into the night.
