Des Moines, Iowa – Heavy rain and strong thunderstorms could roll into central Iowa Thursday afternoon, bringing a summer weather alert for flash flooding that may disrupt travel along I-35 and I-80 by Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a 30% chance of storms begins Thursday morning, increasing to a 70% likelihood by Friday afternoon. While rainfall totals may range from a quarter to half an inch, localized areas could see higher amounts — enough to swell creeks and rivers into the weekend.
South winds between 5 and 8 mph will accompany daytime highs in the mid-80s both Thursday and Friday. Thunderstorms are possible Thursday night as well, with the strongest downpours likely Friday afternoon and evening. No storm spotter activation is expected yet, but conditions may warrant changes if storm development accelerates.
Saturday brings a break in the action, with mostly sunny skies and highs near 82°F. Pleasant weather continues through Monday with dry, partly to mostly sunny conditions and warming temperatures — climbing from the mid-80s on Sunday to 89°F by Tuesday.
5-Day Forecast for Des Moines:
- Thursday (84°F): Scattered storms, mainly before 1 p.m.
- Friday (85°F): Thunderstorms likely after 1 p.m., 70% chance
- Saturday (82°F): Mostly sunny, dry
- Sunday (86°F): Sunny, continued warm
- Monday (88°F): Mostly sunny, seasonal
Prepare now: Charge devices, avoid low-lying roads, and monitor updates as the storm threat intensifies Thursday through Friday.
