Iowa Records Second Wettest July Amid Uneven Rainfall, Heat Expected

Iowa experienced a particularly wet start to August following the second wettest July on record, with July rainfall more than double the expected average and totaling about 9 inches statewide. The heaviest recent rainfall hit western Iowa, including nearly 2 inches in Storm Lake, while eastern parts of the state remained drier. More storms are forecast through mid-August, with intermittent rain chances and potential for heavy totals of 3 to 6 inches between Saturday and Tuesday, alongside rising heat indices reaching near 100 degrees by the weekend. State Climatologist Justin Glisan anticipates continued heat and rain early in August but expects drying conditions toward late August, which should benefit the start of the harvest season. The ongoing wet conditions have largely alleviated drought concerns across Iowa, although there remains a potential for severe weather including wind and hail. Similar weather extremes were noted in Ireland during July, which saw its hottest day of the year but also experienced uneven rainfall distribution, reflecting broader climate variability.