Des Moines, Iowa – Drivers in central Iowa should stay alert Thursday afternoon as thunderstorms may return to Polk County just after 1 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a 30% chance of scattered storms is expected Thursday after midday, with brief rainfall totals under a tenth of an inch. While these storms may remain isolated, they could impact travel along I-235 and surrounding urban routes. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items and check for lightning alerts before any evening plans.
Temperatures will reach near 71°F Thursday before clearing out Thursday night. Friday and Saturday bring a much warmer, summer-like pattern with highs near 80°F Friday and climbing to 86°F by Sunday. Skies stay mostly sunny, making this weekend ideal for outdoor events—though hydration and sunscreen are recommended as heat builds.
Saturday night will stay mild with lows near 59°F. The heat continues Monday with a high near 88°F, and by Tuesday, Des Moines faces a 40% chance of new thunderstorms as breezy conditions return.
Extended Five-Day Outlook:
- Thursday: 30% chance of PM thunderstorms, high 71°F
- Friday: Sunny and dry, high 80°F
- Saturday: Sunny and warmer, high 85°F
- Sunday: Sunny, high 86°F
- Monday: Mostly sunny, hot at 88°F
- Tuesday: 40% chance of PM storms, high 86°F
