Des Moines, Iowa – A noticeable late-winter warm-up could bring a preview of spring across Iowa and Illinois beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as above-average temperatures settle over the region through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal temperatures are favored across much of the central United States during the Thursday-to-Monday stretch, while precipitation trends near seasonal averages. That setup supports milder afternoons without a strong signal for prolonged storm systems.
Across Iowa, highs may climb into the upper 50s and low 60s in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids and Davenport. In Illinois, including Chicago, Rockford and Springfield, afternoon temperatures could run 5 to 10 degrees above late-February averages. Along the I-80 corridor through the Quad Cities, residents may notice a steady moderation compared to recent colder stretches.
Precipitation appears closer to typical late-winter levels, meaning passing systems are possible but no widespread heavy rain or snow event is strongly indicated at this time. Drivers along I-55, I-74 and I-90 should still monitor for patchy morning fog in low-lying areas if skies clear overnight and winds remain light.
Residents can take advantage of the milder stretch for outdoor plans, though late-winter variability remains possible across the Midwest. The warmer pattern is expected to hold through March 2, with additional updates if stronger systems begin organizing across the Plains or Great Lakes.
