Des Moines, IA – Central Iowa’s stretch of mild fall weather is expected to shift this weekend as a storm system brings showers, gusty winds, and possible thunderstorms late Friday into Saturday. Travelers along I-35 and I-80 should prepare for changing road conditions, particularly Friday night into early Saturday morning.
The Weather Pattern: Mild Days Before a Shift
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, Thursday will stay mostly sunny and mild, with highs near 81°F and light winds. Conditions will begin to change Friday as southerly winds strengthen, signaling the approach of a new weather system.
By Friday morning, humidity levels will rise and gusts could reach up to 25 mph, making for a breezy and warm day across central Iowa. The weather service expects scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms to begin developing west of Des Moines by Friday afternoon and spread eastward through the evening.
“The first wave of showers could develop by late afternoon, expanding east through the evening,” the NWS said in its latest discussion. “While widespread severe weather is not expected, gusty winds and brief downpours are possible.”
Rain and Storm Timing: Friday Night Into Early Saturday
The highest rain chances are forecast between 6 p.m. Friday and early Saturday morning, with rainfall totals around a half inch possible. Most of the activity will occur along and north of Interstate 80, where the atmosphere will be more unstable.
While the system does not appear strong enough for widespread severe weather, a few isolated thunderstorms may produce brief gusty winds and localized downpours, especially during the late-night hours.
Saturday morning will bring cooler temperatures as the system exits the region. Skies are expected to gradually clear through the afternoon, leaving behind breezy conditions and highs in the mid-70s.
Travel and Outdoor Precautions
Motorists traveling across I-80 or I-35 late Friday should expect wet roads and reduced visibility during heavier showers. The Iowa Department of Transportation advises drivers to slow down in areas of ponding and to allow extra travel time.
Residents are encouraged to secure lightweight outdoor items, such as Halloween decorations, flags, or lawn furniture, ahead of the stronger winds Friday afternoon and evening.
For those attending outdoor events or Friday football games, it’s best to keep umbrellas and rain gear handy as showers develop.
Outlook for Sunday and Early Next Week
After the system clears, Sunday will bring a return to sunshine and calmer weather, with highs in the mid-60s — perfect for fall festivals, tailgates, and weekend outings.
Temperatures will rebound early next week, climbing back into the low to mid-80s by Tuesday, before another potential system approaches around midweek.
Overall, the weather will remain seasonable, offering a mix of cool mornings, mild afternoons, and occasional fall showers typical for mid-October in Iowa.
Five-Day Forecast for Des Moines, IA
- Thursday: 81° / 63° – Mostly sunny; warm and breezy.
- Friday: 80° / 66° – Showers and storms late; gusty winds.
- Saturday: 76° / 45° – Breezy; early showers, clearing late.
- Sunday: 64° / 47° – Sunny and cool; calm winds.
- Monday: 86° / 63° – Sunny and warmer; light south breeze.
Conclusion
Iowa’s late-week weather will transition from warm and pleasant to breezy and unsettled as showers and storms move in Friday evening. Residents and travelers should stay alert for weather updates and plan accordingly for Friday night through early Saturday. By Sunday, conditions will improve, ushering in a bright and comfortable fall weekend.
What are your plans for the weekend? Share your thoughts or local weather reports in the comments below.
