Weather
Iowa Weather Alert: Des Moines Drops 30° by Thursday, Nov. 8-13
Des Moines, IA – Residents across Polk County and the greater Des Moines metro area should prepare for a significant temperature shift this week, even as sunshine dominates much of the forecast.
By Nora Whitfield · 2026-11-08T11:02:55.022Z
Des Moines, IA – Residents across Polk County and the greater Des Moines metro area should prepare for a significant temperature shift this week, even as sunshine dominates much of the forecast.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will climb into the upper 60s Monday before cooling steadily through Veterans Day and Thursday.
The biggest concern isn't a developing winter storm. It's the return of near freezing nighttime temperatures as November advances.
Monday Warmup Brings 67 Degree Temperatures Sunday's weather remains sunny and relatively comfortable, with afternoon temperatures reaching approximately 61 degrees.
Des Moines International Airport reported 43 degrees and partly cloudy skies early Sunday morning.
Mostly clear skies follow Sunday evening, with temperatures falling toward 38 degrees.
Monday, Nov. 9, brings the warmest conditions of the upcoming week.
Sunshine should push temperatures toward 67 degrees, accompanied by south to southwest winds of 5 10 mph.
For residents planning yardwork, leaf cleanup or outdoor maintenance, Monday offers one of the better opportunities before colder weather arrives.
Tuesday Starts the Cooling Trend Tuesday, Nov. 10, remains sunny, but afternoon temperatures retreat toward 61 degrees.
Calm winds should make outdoor activities relatively comfortable.
Tuesday night turns partly cloudy, with temperatures falling to approximately 43 degrees.
The temperature change becomes more noticeable Wednesday.
Veterans Day, Nov. 11, brings mostly sunny skies and a high near 56 degrees.
While conditions remain favorable for outdoor ceremonies, residents attending morning commemorations should bring jackets.
Wednesday night temperatures fall toward 37 degrees.
Thursday Night Could Drop Below Freezing Thursday, Nov. 12, marks a more noticeable return to colder November weather.
Mostly sunny skies continue, but afternoon temperatures struggle to reach 49 degrees.
That's an 18 degree decline from Monday's projected high.
The sharper concern arrives Thursday night.
Temperatures are expected to fall toward 31 degrees, potentially allowing frost or freezing conditions to develop.
Sensitive outdoor plants and exposed garden vegetation could be vulnerable.
Residents should consider protecting remaining tender plants before temperatures fall.
However, the supplied forecast does not show snow or precipitation accompanying this temperature drop.
That means icy road conditions are not specifically indicated.
Friday Remains Chilly Before Weekend Recovery Friday, Nov. 13, brings sunshine and a high near 49 degrees.
Temperatures fall toward 36 degrees Friday night.
Saturday, Nov. 14, offers some improvement, with sunshine returning and temperatures climbing toward 56 degrees.
The pattern reflects the changing November season, when relatively mild afternoons can quickly give way to colder mornings.
Des Moines Five Day Weather Outlook Monday, Nov. 9: Sunny, high 67°F. Mostly clear Monday night, low 42°F. Tuesday, Nov. 10: Sunny, high 61°F. Partly cloudy Tuesday night, low 43°F. Wednesday, Nov. 11: Mostly sunny for Veterans Day, high 56°F. Partly cloudy Wednesday night, low 37°F. Thursday, Nov. 12: Mostly sunny, high 49°F. Mostly clear Thursday night, low 31°F. Friday, Nov. 13: Sunny, high 49°F. Mostly clear Friday night, low 36°F. Saturday, Nov. 14: Sunny, with temperatures recovering to approximately 56 degrees.
Looking Ahead Toward Thanksgiving The National Weather Service's supplied outlook shows no immediate snow threat for Des Moines through Saturday.
Still, Thursday night's projected 31 degree low provides a reminder that freezing temperatures are becoming increasingly possible.
As Thanksgiving approaches, central Iowa residents should continue monitoring updated outlooks for potential colder weather.
No specific Thanksgiving snowstorm or accumulation is established by the available forecast.
For now, enjoy Monday's mild temperatures, finish outdoor projects and prepare for a considerably colder end to the workweek.
Are you ready for freezing November mornings, or would you rather keep the 60 degree afternoons? Tell us how cold it gets in your Iowa neighborhood.