Des Moines, IA – Central Iowa residents should be prepared for a few spotty evening showers and the chance of a stray thunderstorm tonight, but the region will likely enjoy clear skies and seasonable conditions through early next week. The brief rain will give way to sunny afternoons just in time for Patriot Day remembrances and weekend outdoor events.
The National Weather Service in Des Moines says rainfall should remain light with no expectation of severe winds or hail, and the fair stretch will bring highs in the mid-70s across Des Moines, Ames, and Cedar Rapids beginning September 11.
Tonight’s Brief Chance of Storms
Drivers traveling along I-35 and U.S. 20 should stay alert for sudden downpours that could briefly reduce visibility during the evening commute. While a stray thunderstorm is possible across northern counties through late Wednesday night, forecasters emphasize the showers should be light and short-lived.
“A stray thunderstorm remains possible across northern counties through late Wednesday night. Rainfall should stay light, and spotter activation is not anticipated,” the National Weather Service advised.
Clear Skies and Seasonable Conditions Return
Heading into Thursday, Sept. 11, sunshine will return statewide with afternoon highs in the mid-70s. The dry, pleasant stretch is expected to continue through Monday, offering ideal conditions for football games, farmers’ markets, and harvest activities.
- Thursday, Sept. 11: Sunny, high 76, low 58
- Friday, Sept. 12: Mostly sunny, high 77, low 56
- Saturday, Sept. 13: Clear skies, high 78, low 57
- Sunday, Sept. 14: Partly cloudy, high 79, low 59
- Monday, Sept. 15: Dry and warm, high 81, low 60
Impacts on Events, Travel, and Memorial Observances
The timing of tonight’s light showers should have minimal impact on scheduled Patriot Day events on Sept. 11. With clear skies returning by Thursday afternoon, outdoor ceremonies and community gatherings across Central Iowa are expected to proceed as planned.
Key travel and safety notes:
- Watch for brief periods of reduced visibility if caught in an evening downpour.
- Road surfaces should dry quickly after tonight’s spotty showers.
- Plan for cool mornings and warmer afternoons—dress in layers.
Forecast Confidence and What Comes Next
The National Weather Service currently expects no hazardous weather through Monday. Forecasters note a potential storm chance may develop late next week, but confidence in that scenario remains low at this time. Residents are encouraged to report rainfall amounts if possible to help local forecasters monitor conditions.
Quick Takeaways
- Tonight: Spotty, light showers and a stray thunderstorm possible in northern counties.
- Thursday–Monday: Mostly sunny and seasonable with highs mid-70s to low 80s.
- Travel: Brief reduced visibility possible on I-35 and U.S. 20 during evening downpours.
- Events: Favorable weather for Patriot Day ceremonies and weekend outdoor activities.
Stay prepared: Keep a light jacket for cool mornings, monitor local forecasts if you plan to travel tonight, and report any unusual rainfall to local authorities if possible.
What do you think about this forecast? Will you attend Patriot Day ceremonies or weekend events in Central Iowa? Share your plans and local weather observations in the comments below.
