Des Moines, Iowa – Residents across Iowa are experiencing an unusually warm and windy October day, with temperatures climbing into the low 80s in southern parts of the state. While much of Thursday afternoon brought sunshine and strong winds, storm chances are expected to increase heading into Friday as a cold front moves through the region.
Warm and Windy Conditions Continue
The morning’s spotty showers and isolated storms quickly gave way to sunny skies and breezy south winds, gusting over 25 mph at times. Temperatures surged well above average for mid-October, with humidity levels also higher than usual.
- Highs: Low 80s across southern and southwestern Iowa
- Winds: South at 10–25 mph with gusts
- Dew points: Around the low 60s, adding to the sticky feel
Meteorologists expect temperatures to remain warm well into the evening, falling only into the low 70s by 10 p.m. before cooling gradually overnight.
Friday Brings a Mix of Sun and Storms
A cold front will begin to enter northwest Iowa early Friday morning, but most areas will remain on the warm side of the front through the afternoon.
South winds will continue to be gusty, helping push highs into the upper 70s to near 80°F. The Des Moines metro could reach about 78°F, while southern and southeastern Iowa may again approach the 80-degree mark.
As the cold front sweeps across central Iowa later in the day, expect scattered showers and isolated storms. These won’t form a solid line, meaning some locations will stay dry while others see brief downpours or rumbles of thunder.
- Storm timing: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Des Moines metro
- Earlier chances: Northwest Iowa
- Later chances: Southeast Iowa
By late evening, the front and most of the rain should move out, leading to cooler overnight lows dropping into the 50s by Saturday morning, according to the reports.
Weekend Weather Outlook
Saturday will remain mild with highs in the low to mid-70s, though another wave of cooler air will begin moving in late Saturday night into Sunday. Light rain showers are possible, but rainfall totals should stay light.
The system will clear out by Sunday morning, setting the stage for cooler but dry conditions—perfect timing for the Des Moines Marathon.
- Morning temperatures: Low to mid-40s
- Wind chills: Upper 30s with north winds
- Highs Sunday: Around the low 60s
By Monday, the state should see a rebound into the upper 60s, before more seasonably cool fall weather settles in through much of next week.
Detailed Forecast
Today: Decreasing clouds with mostly sunny skies in the afternoon. Some spotty morning showers. High near 80°F. Winds SSE 10–20 mph.
Tonight: Partly cloudy with mild conditions. Low 63°F. Winds SSE 10–15 mph.
Friday: Partly cloudy morning, turning more unsettled by afternoon with scattered showers and storms. High 78°F. Winds SSW 10–20 mph.
Friday Night: Evening thunderstorms giving way to partly cloudy skies. Low 56°F. Winds SW 5–10 mph.
Staying Safe During Windy and Stormy Weather
Meteorologists advise residents to stay alert for sudden weather changes as the front moves through. Here are a few safety reminders:
- Secure outdoor items such as patio furniture and decorations that could blow away.
- Avoid parking under trees or near power lines during gusty winds.
- Check weather alerts before traveling—wind gusts can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.
- During storms, move indoors and stay away from windows.
Looking Ahead
The National Weather Service expects next week to bring cooler, fall-like temperatures and a few more chances for light rain. Farmers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to a mix of dry and comfortable conditions once the front passes.
What’s your favorite kind of fall weather — warm and breezy or cool and crisp?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
