Des Moines, Iowa – Iowa is bracing for another wave of intense heat this weekend, with triple-digit temperatures and oppressive humidity making for dangerously high heat indices across much of the state. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Des Moines has issued a Heat Advisory for central and southern Iowa, including Des Moines, Ottumwa, and Marshalltown. This advisory will be in effect on Friday and Saturday, as heat indices are forecast to reach or exceed 105°F, creating hazardous conditions for outdoor activities.
Heat Indexes Soar, Risks Mount
According to the NWS, the combination of high temperatures and humidity will make outdoor activity particularly dangerous. Cities like Ames, Creston, and Ottumwa are expected to experience heat indices well over 100°F, with Des Moines reaching 105°F both Friday and Saturday. While northern Iowa may see slightly lower temperatures, the presence of thunderstorms in the forecast creates some uncertainty about just how hot it will get in those areas.
For residents in central and southern Iowa, the intense heat will be especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and outdoor workers. The NWS is advising people to limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, between late morning and the afternoon, and to take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces or shaded areas. Hydration is also crucial, and residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations
The National Weather Service has emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable groups during this heatwave. Children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions are particularly at risk for heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Officials are urging residents to check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or have medical issues, to ensure they stay cool and hydrated.
Additionally, it is critical to never leave pets or people in parked vehicles, even for a short period, as temperatures inside cars can rise to deadly levels very quickly in extreme heat.
Uncertainty from Storms
The forecast for Friday and Saturday includes a possibility of isolated and scattered thunderstorms in some parts of the state, which could bring some temporary relief from the heat. However, the presence of storms also introduces uncertainty about the exact temperatures in northern Iowa. Residents in these areas may see some variation in the heat index, but even with the storms, humidity will remain high, contributing to uncomfortable conditions.
A Slight Break from the Heat by Sunday
Although this weekend’s heat will be intense, relief is expected to arrive by Sunday. Highs are forecast to drop into the upper 80s with lower humidity, offering some respite from the extreme conditions. Still, the risk of heat-related illnesses will remain, and residents should continue to stay vigilant, especially as high humidity lingers.
The NWS is also warning that more weather advisories may be issued if the extreme heat persists into the beginning of next week.
Five-Day Forecast for Des Moines, Iowa:
- Friday: High 101°F, Heat Index 105°F, partly sunny with isolated storms possible late in the day.
- Saturday: High 102°F, Heat Index 105°F, humid with scattered afternoon storms.
- Sunday: High 88°F, lower humidity, mostly sunny skies.
- Monday: High 89°F, sunny and warm.
- Tuesday: High 90°F, partly cloudy with a slight chance of showers.
The return of triple-digit heat this weekend in Iowa presents significant risks to health and safety. With heat indices expected to climb over 105°F, residents in central and southern Iowa must take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones. Limiting outdoor activity, staying hydrated, and checking on vulnerable neighbors are all key steps to managing the extreme conditions. While a slight cooldown is expected by Sunday, the heat threat may persist into next week, and additional advisories could be issued.
