Des Moines, Iowa – Iowa is expected to sit squarely in a transition zone during the first full week of February, with temperature signals weakening from west to east as competing air masses shape the pattern across the Upper Midwest.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, western Iowa carries roughly a 50 percent probability of trending above normal temperatures from Tuesday through the following Monday. That signal gradually diminishes moving east, with central Iowa leaning closer to seasonal averages and eastern Iowa favored to remain near normal overall.
In western Iowa, including Council Bluffs, Sioux City, and nearby communities, daytime highs may climb into the upper 30s and low 40s at times, especially during drier stretches. Central Iowa, including Des Moines and Ames, may see brief mild afternoons but is more likely to hover close to typical early February levels. Eastern Iowa, including Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Dubuque, is expected to stay more firmly anchored to seasonal cold.
Overnight lows statewide will remain cold, commonly falling into the teens and 20s, limiting snowmelt and keeping winter firmly in place despite occasional daytime moderation. The eastward fade of the warm signal reflects Iowa’s position between western U.S. warmth and colder air over the Great Lakes.
Precipitation chances appear limited overall, reducing the risk of widespread snow events. Travel along I-80, I-35, and I-380 should remain manageable, though refreezing overnight may still create slick spots during early morning hours.
Residents should prepare for fluctuating temperatures depending on location, with the mildest conditions favored in the west. With Iowa straddling a sharp gradient, additional outlooks or adjustments are likely as February progresses and the broader pattern becomes clearer.
