Des Moines, Iowa – Thunderstorms will likely develop in central Iowa by 1 p.m. Friday, bringing slick roads and steamy air to Des Moines just as weekend travel ramps up.
According to the National Weather Service, Des Moines faces a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms Friday afternoon into the night, with locally heavy downpours possible. The storms are expected to begin after 1 p.m. and may become more widespread overnight. East southeast winds could gust near 7 mph, making for humid, unstable conditions.
Drivers should use caution on I-235 and surface roads, especially during the Friday evening commute, as visibility may drop in bursts of rain. Minor ponding on roadways is possible, especially in low-lying areas.
Temperatures will hit 82°F Friday, then climb higher over the weekend. Saturday stays hot at 87°F, with a slight chance of storms during the day and a 30% chance of rain after 1 a.m. Sunday. Sunday brings another 30% rain chance, mainly before noon, followed by drier, muggy air.
Starting Monday, a multi-day heat wave builds across the state, with highs peaking near 94°F by Wednesday. With humidity on the rise, heat index values could become dangerous by midweek.
Residents should limit outdoor activity during peak heat and ensure pets and vulnerable individuals stay cool.
⚠️ Summer Weather Threat Continues Through Midweek
Stay weather-aware, especially during peak travel times and outdoor events this weekend. Additional alerts may be issued if storm strength increases.
🌤️ FIVE-DAY DES MOINES FORECAST (JULY 18–JULY 23)
- Friday, July 18: High 82°F — 60% chance of PM thunderstorms
- Saturday: High 87°F — Slight AM storm chance, partly sunny
- Sunday: High 85°F — 30% chance of AM rain, then clearing
- Monday: High 91°F — Mostly sunny, hot and humid
- Tuesday: High 93°F — Sunny, heat builds
- Wednesday: High 94°F — Sunny, rising heat index
