Des Moines, Iowa – Slick highways and reduced visibility could impact travel across the Midwest into the Ohio Valley by Wednesday morning as repeated rounds of rain begin moving through during peak commute hours.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, a broad corridor from Iowa through Illinois, Indiana, and into Ohio is in a high-confidence zone for above-average precipitation from Wednesday through Saturday, with totals expected to run 30 to 60 percent higher than normal. A strong warm pattern is also developing, with a 70 to 80 percent probability of above-normal temperatures across this region.
Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport are expected to see multiple waves of rainfall, increasing the risk of standing water on major corridors including I-80, I-35, and I-380, with impacts extending east toward I-70 and I-75 through Indianapolis and Columbus. Heavier bursts could reduce visibility below one mile at times, especially in eastern Iowa and into Illinois. Farther east, cities like Dayton and Cleveland may also see ponding on roadways and localized flooding in low-lying areas.
Drivers should slow down on wet roads, avoid water-covered highways, and allow extra time for travel. Residents are encouraged to clear storm drains and check sump pumps ahead of the heaviest rainfall.
This wet and warm pattern is expected to continue through Saturday night, with additional advisories likely as rainfall totals and timing become more precise.
