Des Moines, Iowa – Central Iowa residents should prepare for potential thunderstorms and wet road conditions during the Tuesday morning commute, with travel disruptions expected on major highways including I-80 and I-235. Despite a brief storm risk, the week ahead promises a return to warm, sunny weather with temperatures climbing to unseasonably high levels for early September.
Tuesday Morning Storms and Travel Concerns
The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a forecast indicating scattered showers and thunderstorms may develop between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesday. Gusty winds could reach up to 29 mph, with rain accumulations expected to remain below a tenth of an inch. However, localized downpours may temporarily reduce visibility on roadways.
Travelers on I-80 and I-235 should exercise caution, as wet pavements will likely increase stopping distances and could slow down the morning commute.
“Drivers are urged to slow down on major roadways, particularly I-80, where wet pavement could increase braking distances,” advised the National Weather Service in their recent update.
- Possible thunderstorms and showers on Tuesday morning between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Wind gusts up to 29 mph may occur
- Rainfall expected under 0.1 inches with localized downpours reducing visibility
- Travel slowdowns likely on I-80 and I-235
Weather Overview: From Mild Beginnings to Heat Surge
Monday concludes the current week with clear skies, mild temperatures around 80 degrees, and a steady south breeze. By Tuesday night, expect partly cloudy skies and cooler lows near 60 degrees.
Midweek marks a significant temperature increase, as warm, dry conditions return:
- Wednesday and Thursday will feature highs between 87 and 90 degrees with mostly sunny skies.
- Friday and Saturday are forecasted to reach mid-90s, which is unusually warm for this time of year in Iowa.
- A chance of scattered thunderstorms late Saturday may briefly interrupt the heat.
Residents should prepare for afternoon outdoor activities by using sunscreen and staying hydrated as temperatures soar.
Iowa’s Weather Transition in Early September
This week exemplifies Iowa’s typical fall transition weather pattern, blending lingering summer heat with occasional storm interruptions. The mix of hot, dry days and brief showers or storms reflects the changing seasons and presents varied weather challenges for the region.
Five-Day Forecast for Des Moines, Iowa
- Tuesday: Showers possible mid-morning, high 77, low 60.
- Wednesday: Sunny and warm, high 87, low 63.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 90, low 66.
- Friday: Hot and mostly sunny, high 93, low 70.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, chance of storms late, high 94, low 68.
What do you think about this weather pattern? How are you preparing for the storm risks and upcoming heat in Central Iowa? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
