Des Moines, Iowa – A stretch of pleasant and increasingly warm weather is expected across Iowa through the weekend and into early next week, with temperatures climbing well above normal by Monday.
According to the National Weather Service Des Moines, dry conditions will persist statewide through at least early next week, allowing a steady warming trend to take hold. While Saturday and Sunday will already feel milder than recent days, Monday is expected to be the warmest day, with temperatures reaching levels more typical of late March than early February.
Forecast highs on Monday are expected to range from the upper 40s across northeast Iowa to the upper 50s and low 60s across southwest Iowa. Cities including Des Moines, Ames, Marshalltown, Creston, Ottumwa, and Lamoni could see temperatures approaching or exceeding 60 degrees, particularly south and west of Interstate 35.
Major travel corridors such as I-35, I-80, U.S. Highway 30, U.S. Highway 20, and U.S. Highway 34 are expected to remain dry, with no precipitation or winter travel hazards anticipated. The lack of snow cover across much of the state will further enhance daytime warming.
The National Weather Service notes that these temperatures are well above normal for early February, when typical highs range from the mid-20s north to low 30s south. Some locations may approach near-record highs on Monday, especially across central and southern Iowa.
Overnight temperatures will also trend milder, with lows gradually climbing into the 30s and 40s by early next week. Winds are expected to remain relatively light, adding to the comfortable feel for outdoor activities.
Residents, commuters, students, and outdoor workers may notice a sharp contrast from recent cold spells. The warm, dry conditions could provide an opportunity for travel, recreation, and early-season outdoor work.
While the warmup is expected to continue into early next week, the National Weather Service advises monitoring forecasts for any changes later in the period.
