Record Heat, City Hall Decisions and New Development Lead Des Moines Headlines

It’s been an eventful few days across the Des Moines metro, with unusual weather, major Statehouse decisions and public safety news topping local headlines.

Des Moines Breaks Another February Heat Record

Des Moines hit 68 degrees on Monday, breaking a temperature record that had stood since 1981. It marks the city’s third record high of 2026 during what meteorologists are calling an unusually warm late-winter stretch.

Forecasters say the spring-like warmth will linger briefly before temperatures cool back into the 30s later this week, with a chance of light snow. The cluster of record highs has placed February 2026 among the more notable warm periods in the city’s climate history.

Iowa House Abortion Ban Bill Won’t Advance

A proposal from Iowa House Republicans that would have banned nearly all abortions will not move forward this legislative session. Legislative leaders confirmed the bill lacks the support needed to advance this year.

The decision comes during the busy funnel period at the Statehouse, when many bills fail to meet procedural deadlines. Lawmakers are continuing to debate other health care and regulatory measures as the session moves deeper into spring.

Person Hospitalized After West Des Moines Shooting

West Des Moines police are investigating a shooting that left one person hospitalized. Officers responded to reports of gunfire and located a victim who was transported for medical treatment. Authorities have not released additional details about a suspect.

The investigation remains active as officers work to determine what led up to the incident.

Plans Advance for Walkable District Near Valley West Mall

In development news, West Des Moines city leaders are proposing a new walkable district near Valley West Mall. The concept includes mixed-use buildings, housing and pedestrian-friendly spaces aimed at revitalizing the area.

City officials say the proposal is part of a broader effort to reshape aging retail corridors into more community-centered destinations.

Sources

https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/february-heat-des-moines-sets-another-temperature-record-monday/ar-AA1WtY
https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2026/02/16/iowa-house-gop-bill-banning-all-abortions-wont-advance-this-year/
https://www.kcci.com/article/person-hospitalized-after-shooting-in-west-des-moines-police-investigating/
https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/west-des-moines-proposes-walkable-district-near-valley-west-mall/