Des Moines, Iowa – Back-to-back thunderstorms are expected to roll through central Iowa starting Tuesday, bringing daily rain chances and gusty winds through Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms will impact Polk County and surrounding areas beginning Tuesday morning. Rain may begin after 4 a.m. Tuesday, followed by possible thunderstorms throughout the day and evening. Winds could gust up to 21 mph, especially along I-235 and I-80 during commute hours.
The most active days appear to be Wednesday and Thursday, when storm chances increase to 60–70% during the day and overnight. Rainfall could exceed a quarter-inch in areas experiencing thunderstorms. The heaviest rain and localized thunder are expected Wednesday afternoon into early Thursday.
Motorists should slow down on slick roadways, especially during the morning and evening rush. Plan for wet roads across metro Des Moines, Ames, and along major corridors like Highway 65 and I-35.
Despite the active pattern, severe weather risk remains low as of Monday, but NWS meteorologists are monitoring for any changes. No weather spotters are needed at this time.
Here’s the five-day spring weather preview:
- Tuesday: Chance of storms, high near 74°F
- Wednesday: Showers likely, thunder possible, high near 75°F
- Thursday: More storms possible, high near 73°F
- Friday: Showers likely, high near 66°F
- Saturday: Partly sunny and mild, high near 65°F
