Iowa starts the day locked in winter cold, but the thaw arrives fast and forcefully.
Temperatures sit in the upper 20s early this morning around Des Moines, with crisp air and quiet streets. By afternoon, that chill fades as a sharp February warm front surges north.
According to the National Weather Service, highs climb to around 62 degrees, marking a dramatic swing in less than 24 hours. South winds increase through the day, gusting over 20 mph, accelerating snowmelt and drying exposed ground. It feels more like early spring than midwinter by late afternoon.
Drivers should stay alert early. Cold pavement and lingering frost can create brief slick spots on bridges and shaded roads. Conditions improve quickly as temperatures rise and surfaces dry. After midday, travel impacts ease, but strong crosswinds may affect east-west routes, including I-80.
The warmth doesn’t fully hold. By Tuesday, highs ease back into the upper 40s, still mild for February. Skies remain mostly dry through Wednesday, with temperatures hovering near 47 degrees. To be fair, winter stays nearby. Clouds thicken late week as moisture returns.
By Thursday, rain becomes more likely, with a rain-snow mix possible early, especially during cooler morning hours. No major accumulation is expected, but timing matters for commuters. Wet pavement combined with evening cooling raises the risk of flash freezing, a common mid-February hazard.
Looking ahead, meteorologists note a broader warming trend across the central U.S. Even as the Great Lakes remain heavily frozen, a regional thaw is underway. For Iowa, that means more temperature swings and mixed precipitation chances into next weekend.
For now, plan layers. The day starts icy, turns mild fast, and reminds everyone that February rarely settles into one mood for long.
Five-Day Outlook – Des Moines, IA
- Today: Partly sunny, high near 62°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 49°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 47°F
- Thursday: Chance of rain/snow early, then rain, high near 45°F
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, chance of rain, high near 44°F
