Weather
Central Iowa Weather: Warm Weekend Ends With 60s Oct 26-27
Des Moines, IA – A noticeable shift in late October temperatures is approaching central Iowa as a stretch of unusually mild afternoons gives way to cooler conditions early next week. Des Moines is exp
By Grant Holloway · 2026-10-23T10:39:57.955Z
Des Moines, IA – A noticeable shift in late October temperatures is approaching central Iowa as a stretch of unusually mild afternoons gives way to cooler conditions early next week. Des Moines is expected to reach 78 degrees Friday, October 23, before temperatures gradually decline through the weekend and settle into the upper 60s by Monday and Tuesday. The transition will bring increasing cloud cover, cooler mornings and a more traditional autumn feel, although significant rainfall is not indicated in the immediate forecast.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, temperatures are expected to reach 77 degrees Saturday before slipping to 73 degrees Sunday and 69 degrees Monday, October 26. Tuesday's projected high of 67 degrees would mark an 11 degree decline from Friday's forecast high. Rather than an abrupt temperature collapse, the change is expected to unfold gradually over several days, giving residents time to adjust outdoor plans and clothing choices.
Monday Brings a More Noticeable Fall Pattern The transition becomes more apparent Monday as mostly cloudy skies replace the brighter conditions expected earlier in the weekend. Afternoon temperatures should reach approximately 69 degrees, while nighttime readings fall near 52 degrees. Although those temperatures remain relatively comfortable for late October, they represent a departure from the upper 70 degree warmth forecast Friday and Saturday.
Sunday serves as the transition between the warmer weekend and cooler workweek. Partly sunny skies are expected with temperatures near 73 degrees and calm winds. Mostly cloudy conditions develop Sunday night as temperatures fall to approximately 53 degrees, setting the stage for Monday's cooler afternoon.
Cooler Mornings and Changing Skies Affect Daily Plans The contrast between daytime warmth and nighttime temperatures will remain noticeable throughout the period. Friday night is expected to reach approximately 59 degrees, followed by 55 degrees Saturday night and 53 degrees Sunday night. By Monday night, temperatures should fall to approximately 52 degrees, continuing the gradual cooling trend.
For commuters traveling Interstate 35, Interstate 80 and Interstate 235 around the Des Moines metropolitan area, the forecast suggests cooler early morning conditions as the workweek begins. No significant precipitation is indicated through Tuesday in the supplied local forecast, although motorists should continue checking conditions before traveling. The gradual cooldown could also influence clothing choices for outdoor workers, students and residents spending extended periods outside.
Friday and Saturday should provide the most favorable opportunities for outdoor recreation, with mostly sunny skies and afternoon highs near 78 and 77 degrees, respectively. Friday's south southeast winds are expected to range from 5 to 11 mph, with gusts reaching 20 mph. Saturday brings lighter southerly winds of approximately 7 to 10 mph.
Rain Chances Return Later in the Week By Tuesday, October 27, temperatures are expected to reach approximately 67 degrees under mostly cloudy skies. Tuesday night should remain cloudy, with temperatures falling near 52 degrees. The cooler conditions will contrast with the sunshine and warmth expected at the beginning of the forecast period.
The outlook becomes somewhat more unsettled Wednesday night, October 28, when the National Weather Service indicates a 40% chance of showers. Wednesday itself should remain mostly sunny with a high near 70 degrees before clouds increase and temperatures fall near 51 degrees.
Thursday, October 29, brings another opportunity for rainfall, with a 30% chance of showers and an afternoon high near 65 degrees. The available forecast does not specify rainfall totals or indicate a significant storm threat for Des Moines during that period.
For residents across Des Moines and surrounding Polk County communities, the approaching change offers a reminder that late October warmth can gradually give way to cooler autumn conditions.
Are you enjoying the warmer October temperatures, or are you looking forward to cooler fall weather next week?
Five Day Weather Outlook Friday 10/23: Mostly sunny skies bring an afternoon high near 78 degrees, with south southeast winds of 5 to 11 mph and gusts reaching 20 mph; partly cloudy conditions follow Friday night with a low near 59 degrees.
Saturday 10/24: Mostly sunny skies continue with an afternoon high near 77 degrees and south winds of 7 to 10 mph, followed by partly cloudy conditions Saturday night as temperatures fall to approximately 55 degrees.
Sunday 10/25: Partly sunny skies accompany a gradual cooldown, with afternoon temperatures reaching approximately 73 degrees and calm winds expected; mostly cloudy conditions develop Sunday night as temperatures settle near 53 degrees.
Monday 10/26: Mostly cloudy skies dominate the beginning of the workweek, with temperatures reaching approximately 69 degrees during the afternoon before falling near 52 degrees Monday night under continued mostly cloudy conditions.
Tuesday 10/27: Mostly cloudy conditions continue as afternoon temperatures reach approximately 67 degrees, marking an 11 degree decrease from Friday's projected high; mostly cloudy skies persist Tuesday night with temperatures falling near 52 degrees.
Extended Weather Outlook Wednesday, October 28, is expected to bring mostly sunny skies and an afternoon high near 70 degrees. Clouds increase Wednesday night, with temperatures falling to approximately 51 degrees and a 40% chance of showers.
Thursday, October 29, should feature partly sunny skies, a high near 65 degrees and a 30% chance of showers.
The supplied National Weather Service point forecast does not indicate accumulating snow, freezing temperatures or significant storm hazards through Thursday. No separate six to 10 day outlook guidance was provided.