Des Moines, Iowa – A cold front moving through Iowa tonight will usher in breezy conditions into Tuesday, followed by several days of dry weather and above-normal temperatures before light rain and snow chances return later this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, northwest winds will increase behind the cold front tonight, remaining gusty through Tuesday. Wind gusts could reach 25 to 40 mph, especially during the daytime hours Tuesday, which may make travel difficult for high-profile vehicles on exposed roadways.
Despite the front, temperatures will remain relatively mild for early February. Highs on Tuesday are expected to reach the upper 30s to mid-40s, with overnight lows dipping into the upper 20s to low 30s. Gusty winds may cause temperatures to feel cooler at times.
By Wednesday, conditions improve significantly as winds diminish and skies become mostly sunny. High temperatures will range from 41 to 49 degrees, continuing a trend of above-average warmth for central Iowa. Dry weather is expected to persist through most of Wednesday.
Attention then turns to Thursday, when clouds increase and the next system approaches. The National Weather Service indicates a chance for light rain or snow, mainly across northeastern Iowa, with central Iowa seeing mostly cloudy conditions. At this time, any precipitation appears light, with no significant impacts expected.
Major travel routes including Interstate 80, Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 65, U.S. Highway 30, and U.S. Highway 69 may experience blustery crosswinds Tuesday, particularly in open rural areas. Drivers should remain alert for sudden gusts, especially while passing or driving high-profile vehicles.
No winter weather advisories are currently in effect, and road conditions are expected to remain dry through Wednesday.
Commuters, truck drivers, and outdoor workers should prepare for windy conditions Tuesday and continue monitoring forecasts for potential late-week precipitation.
Forecast confidence is high for dry and breezy conditions through midweek, with moderate confidence regarding Thursday’s light precipitation chances.
