Des Moines, Iowa – A rapid warmup will peak by Thursday afternoon with gusty winds creating elevated fire danger across central Iowa, especially during peak daytime heating.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, temperatures will climb into the upper 70s to near 80°F by Wednesday and Thursday, with cities like Des Moines, Ames, and Marshalltown reaching well above seasonal averages. This warm stretch intensifies Thursday as south winds increase to 20 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 36 mph.
The combination of warm temperatures, gusty winds, and relative humidity between 30% and 40% will create conditions favorable for fire spread, particularly in open fields and rural areas along I-35 and Highway 30 corridors. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged as fires could spread quickly.
By Thursday evening into Friday, a cooler air mass arrives, dropping highs back into the upper 40s to low 50s across much of the state. Cities including Fort Dodge, Waterloo, and Ottumwa will see a sharp temperature drop within 24 hours.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid activities that could spark fires, and prepare for cooler conditions heading into Friday. Additional advisories may be issued if fire danger increases further.
