Iowa Weather: Record Heat Gives Way to Frigid Conditions
Iowa is experiencing a dramatic shift in weather, with record-breaking temperatures expected today followed by a sharp drop and strong winds this weekend. Residents are urged to prepare for both fire danger and rapidly changing conditions.
Record Heat Expected Today
The warmth that has been building this week will peak today, with highs potentially reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit in central and southwest Iowa. This warmth, accompanied by a southwest breeze, is bringing summer-like conditions to the state. Many areas of southern Iowa started the day with temperatures near or above the average high of 52 degrees Fahrenheit for this time of year.
Des Moines is likely to break its daily record of 86 degrees Fahrenheit, set in 1938, and could even challenge the warmest March temperature on record of 91 degrees Fahrenheit, set in 1986. Ottumwa, Mason City, and Waterloo are also forecast to break record highs, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-80s.
Fire Danger and Red Flag Warning
The unusually hot and dry conditions have elevated fire danger across the state, particularly in western and southwest Iowa. A Red Flag Warning is in effect for these areas, strongly discouraging any outdoor burning until cooler, more humid conditions return.
Dramatic Cool Down This Weekend
A cold front will move through overnight, bringing north winds gusting over 30 mph. This will cause temperatures to plummet, starting near 60 degrees Fahrenheit in the morning and dropping into the 50s throughout the day on Sunday. Monday will be the coolest day of the week, with highs in the low to mid-50s.
Looking Ahead
Temperatures are expected to rebound quickly, returning to the 60s and 70s by the middle of next week. Little to no rain is anticipated through the end of next week.
Des Moines Weather Forecast
- Today: Abundant sunshine. Record high temperatures expected. High 90°F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph.
- Tonight: Partly cloudy. Low around 57°F. SSW winds shifting to WNW at 10 to 20 mph.
- Tomorrow: Windy. Cloudy skies will become partly cloudy in the afternoon. High 57°F. Winds N at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.
- Tomorrow Night: A few clouds from time to time. Low near 33°F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph.
Residents can monitor weather conditions across Iowa by checking skycam views from more than 20 sites across the state. KCCI’s skycam page provides aerial views of conditions statewide.
The post Record Heat & Fire Danger: Iowa Braces for 90° Temps Today | KCCI appeared first on Archynewsy.