Greater Des Moines/ Weather & Environment

Stormy Monday: Des Moines Braces for Downpours, Tornado Threat

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Published on November 02, 2026
Stormy Monday: Des Moines Braces for Downpours, Tornado ThreatSource: Tim Kiser / Wikimedia Commons

Des Moines is starting Monday under a cloudy sky, but the calm-looking morning is a brief opening act. Light showers were already moving across Iowa early Monday morning, with occasional showers expected through much of the day. South-southeast winds of 14 to 20 mph could gust to 31 mph, making the wet commute and any outdoor plans more complicated.

The latest outlook is a more consequential update to Sunday’s Hoodline forecast. Monday’s rain chance reaches 80%, with one-half to three-quarters of an inch possible. Monday night brings a 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms, with three-quarters of an inch to 1 inch possible, according to the National Weather Service in Des Moines.

Severe Weather Risk Rises Monday Night

Forecasters are highlighting a marginal risk for severe weather late Monday into Monday night, including after dark. Damaging wind gusts and a tornado or two may be possible if storms become strong enough, although no watches, warnings or advisories are currently listed for the Des Moines area. Residents should keep weather alerts on and avoid being caught outside during the strongest storms.

Tuesday Keeps The Umbrella Handy

Showers and thunderstorms remain likely Tuesday, with a high near 69. A few rain showers could linger Tuesday night, when the low dips to about 48.

Cooler, Quieter Weather Arrives Midweek

Wednesday brings continued rain chances and temperatures around 61 degrees. Thursday stays mostly cloudy, with stratus and rain lingering until late in the day and highs potentially in the 40s. Friday brings partly sunny conditions. Saturday is forecast to reach near 63. Sunday should reach about 67, with dry conditions during the day.