Iowa wakes up locked in deep winter as clear skies do nothing to ease the brutal cold. The air feels razor-sharp, exhaust plumes hang low, and exposed skin burns within moments.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect across central Iowa, including Des Moines, through mid-morning. Wind chills plunge between 15 and 30 degrees below zero, creating dangerous conditions for anyone outdoors. According to the National Weather Service, frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 10 to 15 minutes.
Actual air temperatures hover near 1 degree, but steady northwest winds drive the real danger. Sidewalks crunch underfoot, and metal surfaces sting instantly. Roads remain mostly dry, yet slick spots linger where snowmelt refroze overnight. This is prime season for flash freezing, especially on bridges and shaded streets.
Travel impacts remain manageable but require caution. Vehicles may struggle to start, and battery failures increase in this cold. Keep fuel tanks above half full and carry winter survival supplies. If you must travel, allow extra time and watch for black ice on ramps and overpasses.
Conditions improve slightly by afternoon as sunshine helps temperatures climb toward 20 degrees. Even then, wind chills stay harsh. Tonight turns cold again, though winds ease somewhat. Refreezing continues after sunset, keeping walkways icy.
Tuesday brings more sun and a similar chill, with highs near 20 degrees. By Wednesday, temperatures finally edge closer to seasonal levels, reaching the mid-20s. Late week trends modestly milder, though winter keeps control.
Looking ahead, 6–10 day outlooks show decreasing precipitation chances across Iowa. Cold air remains dominant across the Midwest, while warmer patterns build farther south into early February.
For now, limit outdoor exposure, dress in layers, and check on neighbors. How cold did it feel when you stepped outside today?
Five-Day Outlook: Des Moines, Iowa
- Today: Sunny, dangerously cold. High near 20°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, very cold. High near 20°F.
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, cold. High near 25°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny. High near 18°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, slow moderation. High near 17°F.
