Des Moines, Iowa – Drivers across Iowa can count on clear skies and dry pavement this weekend as September ends with unseasonable warmth. Sunshine and highs in the mid-80s will dominate through Sunday, keeping I-35 and I-80 free from weather-related travel issues. Residents should plan for comfortable outdoor events but remain cautious about hydration and sun exposure, as temperatures will feel more like August than early fall.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, Thursday will bring sunshine and a high near 80, followed by steady warming into the weekend. Friday and Saturday each reach the mid-80s, with calm winds adding to the stretch of ideal outdoor weather. Nights will stay mild, in the upper 50s and low 60s, eliminating frost concerns for the last week of September.
Farmers wrapping up early harvest runs and football fans heading into tailgate season will welcome the stable, dry pattern. Outdoor workers, however, should prepare for warm afternoons by drinking water and taking breaks, especially under direct sun. With skies clear, visibility on major highways will stay strong, and drivers should not expect travel delays from weather.
Looking ahead, the first days of October bring subtle change. By Tuesday and Wednesday, highs dip into the lower 80s with partly cloudy skies, signaling the first hints of cooler fall air on the horizon. No rainfall is expected before midweek, extending a dry stretch that could increase soil dryness across central Iowa if it persists deeper into October.
The calm, sunny run continues through Sunday, but forecasters note pattern shifts could develop later next week.
Five Day Forecast for Des Moines, Iowa:
- Thursday: Sunny, high 80°
- Friday: Sunny, high 84°, low 58°
- Saturday: Sunny, high 85°
- Sunday: Sunny, high 85°, low 61°
- Monday: Sunny, high 85°
