DES MOINES, Iowa – A warm, breezy weekend will make this October Saturday feel more like early September, setting up a comfortable stretch before light showers develop by the Columbus Day holiday. Highs near 80°F on Sunday will invite plenty of outdoor activity—from pumpkin patch visits to fall park strolls—though gusty winds could make leaf viewing tricky at times.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, southerly winds will strengthen Sunday, gusting over 30 mph along I-35 and U.S. 69. Columbus Day will bring one last mild push near 70°F before clouds increase and scattered showers develop Monday evening into Tuesday. While no frost or freeze concerns are expected yet, a cool-down midweek will mark Iowa’s first true hint of late-fall weather.
The Iowa Department of Transportation advises motorists to prepare for brief slick spots during early Tuesday morning commutes as showers taper. Outdoor plans for the holiday weekend should remain largely safe, but residents are urged to secure lightweight decorations, charge devices ahead of potential power flickers, and stay alert for quick-moving showers Monday night.
By midweek, drier air returns with highs dipping into the 60s—ideal for fall yardwork, football practice, and seasonal decorating ahead of Halloween.
Five-Day Forecast for Des Moines, IA:
Sat: 72/55 – Mostly sunny; light east breeze, pleasant fall warmth.
Sun: 80/60 – Breezy and mild; gusts near 30 mph.
Mon (Columbus Day): 70/53 – Increasing clouds; slight chance of PM showers.
Tue: 62/51 – Cloudy, cooler; 30% chance of early showers.
Wed: 67/52 – Mostly sunny; crisp fall feel returns.
