Iowa – Cold air presses against windows this morning as engines idle longer and breath hangs in the dark. It feels like deep winter at sunrise, but change is already lining up across central Iowa.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, temperatures sit near 30 degrees early, with wind chills in the mid-20s. Skies remain mostly cloudy, but conditions stay dry. Highs climb into the mid-30s today, offering limited melting on cold pavement.
Across Des Moines, roads along I-235, I-80, and surface streets remain dry but cold. Any moisture from previous days can refreeze early, especially on bridges and shaded ramps. Commuters should stay alert for isolated slick spots during the morning drive.
Tonight turns colder again. Lows fall near 19, locking in frozen ground. Tuesday stays quiet and chilly, with highs near 30 under partly sunny skies. While no snow is expected, cold surfaces mean any unexpected moisture could create brief travel issues.
Midweek marks a noticeable shift. Wednesday brings more sunshine and highs returning to the mid-30s. Winds stay light, allowing gradual warming. By Thursday, temperatures surge into the mid-40s, signaling one of the mildest days so far this February.
That warmup may feel dramatic, but it carries implications. Melting snow piles and frozen ground can lead to ponding on roads during the day, followed by refreezing after sunset. This freeze-thaw cycle increases the risk of slick patches during evening travel.
Looking toward the Feb 6–8 weekend, temperatures cool slightly but remain seasonable, with highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s. No major storms appear imminent, though February patterns remain active across the Midwest.
Dress for the cold early, then prepare for rapid changes later this week. Are you noticing icy patches this morning, or is pavement dry where you are?
Five-Day Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa
- Today: Partly sunny; high near 34
- Tuesday: Partly sunny; high near 30
- Wednesday: Partly sunny; high near 34
- Thursday: Mostly sunny and warmer; high near 46
- Friday: Mostly sunny; high near 41
