Iowa – Snowflakes mixing into cold rain will turn roads slushy and slick across central Iowa, setting up a messy Tuesday morning commute. Drivers in Des Moines may hit reduced traction on I-235 and I-80 as temperatures fall toward freezing and light accumulation begins.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, snowfall is expected to develop late tonight with minor accumulation, generally under a half inch, before transitioning back to rain after sunrise Tuesday . Roads may briefly ice over where temperatures dip near 28°F, especially on bridges and untreated surfaces.
Tuesday stays unsettled, with a 60% chance of snow and rain mixing through the day and highs near 41°F. East-southeast winds could gust above 20 mph, pushing slushy precipitation across open roadways and lowering visibility at times.
By Tuesday night, precipitation shifts back to mainly rain as temperatures rise into the upper 30s. That warming trend accelerates Wednesday, when highs jump to 68°F. Showers and isolated thunderstorms develop by late afternoon, adding ponding risks on roads like US-69 and I-35.
Rain becomes more widespread Wednesday night into Thursday, with a 70% chance of showers and additional rainfall that could push water levels higher in low-lying areas.
Plan extra travel time Tuesday morning and avoid sudden braking on slushy roads. Keep headlights on and watch for changing conditions block by block.
Conditions improve briefly, but an active spring pattern continues with multiple rounds of rain ahead. More alerts may follow as systems develop.
Traveling Tuesday morning? Are roads slick in your area yet?
Five Day Outlook For Des Moines, IA:
Tuesday: Rain/snow mix, high 41°F
Wednesday: Showers, high 68°F
Thursday: Showers likely, high 61°F
Friday: Chance of showers, high 61°F
Saturday: Showers likely, high 66°F
