Des Moines, IA – Rain and a brief wintry mix are expected to move across Iowa this evening and continue into the overnight hours, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Des Moines. The system will bring widespread rain to much of the state, with northern Iowa seeing the highest likelihood of a short-lived transition to light snow early Tuesday morning.
According to NWS Des Moines, a few showers could develop this afternoon, but the more widespread rainfall is forecast to begin after sunset. Forecasters note that a few non-severe thunderstorms may form over central and southern Iowa this evening as the system strengthens. These storms are not expected to produce severe weather but may bring pockets of heavier rainfall.
Overnight, widespread rain will continue statewide. In far northern Iowa—including areas near the Minnesota border—temperatures may briefly dip near or below 32 degrees, allowing a short transition from rain to light snow. Any accumulation is expected to be minor but could create isolated slick spots around daybreak Tuesday.
By Tuesday morning, NWS Des Moines says drizzle may linger, but most of the state will experience cloudy conditions as the system gradually shifts east. The exact placement of the rain–snow transition line could change depending on subtle temperature fluctuations.
Travelers in northern Iowa early Tuesday should use caution, especially on bridges and elevated surfaces where icy patches could develop. Central and southern Iowa commuters may encounter wet roads from overnight rain and potential leftover drizzle.
Residents across Polk County, Story County, Boone County, and the broader central Iowa region are encouraged to monitor forecast updates as conditions could shift through the evening and overnight hours.
