Iowa — Frost hangs on rooftops and sidewalks across central Iowa this morning as temperatures hover in the teens. The air feels still, almost heavy, but change is already underway.
Early today, Des Moines sits near 16 degrees under mostly cloudy skies. Roads remain dry, though untreated surfaces stay slick in shaded areas. Afternoon temperatures climb into the mid-30s, easing the bite but keeping winter firmly in place. Drivers should stay alert for refreezing after sunset as temperatures fall back into the lower 20s.
Tonight remains quiet and cold. Clouds linger, winds stay light, and lows dip near 15 degrees. By morning, patchy frost redevelops, especially on bridges and elevated ramps along I-235 and I-80.
Thursday signals a noticeable shift. Clouds gradually thin, and temperatures surge toward the upper 40s by afternoon. Southwesterly winds increase, bringing a brief taste of late-winter warmth. Snowpack melts quickly, leaving wet pavement and standing water in low spots.
Thursday night turns breezy and cooler, but skies clear. Gusts pick up, and temperatures settle near the low 30s. Any lingering moisture refreezes before sunrise, setting up localized slick spots for early commuters.
Friday feels different. Sunshine dominates, highs reach the mid-40s, and winds turn gusty at times. While travel conditions remain generally good, strong breezes may impact high-profile vehicles and make it feel cooler than temperatures suggest.
The weekend stays mild for February standards. Saturday brings sunshine and highs near the low 40s, while Saturday night cools into the upper 20s. Sunday warms further, with highs approaching the upper 40s under mostly sunny skies.
Looking ahead, early next week trends even warmer. Highs push into the 50s by Monday and Tuesday, hinting at a longer warming pattern taking shape across Iowa.
Plan for melting during the day, refreezing at night, and gusty winds late week. How quickly did temperatures rise in your neighborhood today?
Five-Day Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa
- Today: Mostly cloudy; high near 34
- Thursday: Clearing and warmer; high near 47
- Friday: Mostly sunny and breezy; high near 44
- Saturday: Mostly sunny; high near 42
- Sunday: Sunny; high near 48
