Hot and humid would be the only way to describe the State Fair Wednesday. Not an issue to be seen all day as Mostly Cloudy skies taper off to Partly Cloudy skies by noon. Showers and thunderstorms from the morning should taper off due to the lack of forcing around the area. Temperatures will be a bit milder as aforementioned into the upper 80s with dew points approaching 70 – leading to heat index values nearing 100°. However, there will be a light breeze from the southwest at 5-10 MPH throughout the day, which should keep things fairly nice overall.

Thursday will remain nice, but again hot and humid. Temperatures will be in the low 90s with dew points nearing 70° – which may creep up to advisory criteria for heat indexes, over 100°. This is the main headline for tomorrow that will have to be monitored.

A big pattern change is in store for Friday and beyond as an upper-level low pressure system moves into the region. This will bring widespread showers and thunderstorms to the state on Friday ahead of a frontal boundary. With a very moist atmosphere in place, any rain that falls will likely be heavy. Flooding will not be a concern, however, thanks to the drying seen over the past couple of days. Severe weather is possible but should stay away from the Des Moines area. Gusty winds and perhaps some large hail will be possible with the stronger storms.

The pattern change will also usher in colder air in the 70s for the weekend. Needless to say, if you’re able to get to the State Fair today or tomorrow, make sure to do so. Thunderstorm chances linger into Saturday, though Sunday should be clear for the final day.

Have a great Wednesday!