Iowa – A thin veil of clouds drifts over Des Moines before sunrise, glowing faintly against the city lights as a cool breeze pushes across damp pavement. The quiet scene won’t last long. A stronger wave of moisture targets central Iowa just as Thanksgiving travel begins to accelerate this week.
According to the National Weather Service Des Moines office, skies turn mostly sunny early before increasing clouds lift into the metro. Light southeast winds build through the morning, giving the air a brisk, unsettled feel. A few spotty showers arrive later today, especially along I-80 from West Des Moines to Altoona. Travelers should plan for slower traffic and brief visibility drops during the afternoon push.
According to forecasters, tonight delivers the higher rain chance with a few thunderstorms possible. New rainfall remains light—generally under a tenth of an inch—but stronger gusts may reach 25 mph, rattling light outdoor decorations and creating quick crosswind pockets on exposed bridges. Roads stay wet and occasionally slick, so residents should allow extra minutes for evening errands.
According to emerging guidance, Tuesday trends cloudy with temperatures near 50. Northeast winds increase slightly, adding a sharper chill during the morning commute. Isolated rain pockets linger, and any heavier burst could reduce visibility along I-35 and I-235. No early-season snow threat appears in central Iowa, though colder air gathering across the upper Midwest hints at a distant Winter Tease for regions farther north.
According to early projections, Wednesday turns mostly cloudy and calm. Thursday and Friday bring more rain chances as warmer air pushes north. The weekend looks brighter, offering a useful window for leaf cleanup or flexible Thanksgiving travel.
Five-Day Weather Forecast for Des Moines, IA:
Mon: 52/41 – Partly sunny; late showers; breezy at times.
Tue: 50/40 – Mostly cloudy; spotty rain; slower travel.
Wed: 55/42 – Mostly cloudy; calm; seasonal.
Thu: 58/45 – Chance rain; breezy; wet travel periods.
Fri: 55/37 – Rain likely; cooler late.
