Iowa – A low gray deck hangs over Des Moines before sunrise, and the damp air carries a steady November chill. Streetlights glint off wet pavement as early travelers set out along I-80, where patchy drizzle threatens slower speeds and longer braking distances. This stretch of unsettled weather arrives just as Thanksgiving travel begins gathering momentum.
According to the National Weather Service Des Moines office, showers expand through the morning as moisture lifts north into central Iowa. Light rain continues through the early afternoon, mixing occasionally with cooler pockets. No snow is expected today in the metro, yet a subtle “Winter Tease” lingers over northern Iowa, where models hint at a brief rain-snow mix near daybreak. Motorists should allow extra time, especially on leaf-covered roads.
According to meteorologists, clouds hold firm tonight with a mild north breeze. Wednesday turns mostly cloudy but calmer, with temperatures edging into the lower-50s. Sunshine returns Thursday, and to be fair, the mild rebound offers a good window for early holiday errands or yard cleanup before colder air sweeps in later this weekend. Highs stay in the upper-40s to near 50, but lows dip toward freezing by Saturday morning. Rural areas west of the metro may flirt with a frost as skies clear.
Thanksgiving travelers should prepare for varied driving conditions across the state this week. Rain today may slow outbound trips, followed by improving roads Wednesday and Thursday. Still, keep an eye on changing temperatures—any late-week dip could allow patchy fog or slick early-morning spots in low-lying valleys.
Five-Day Outlook for Des Moines, IA:
Tue: 47/40 – Light rain early; breezy northeast winds.
Wed: 52/41 – Mostly cloudy; calmer.
Thu: 58/35 – Mostly sunny; pleasant for travel.
Fri: 49/32 – Slight chance of rain; cooler.
Sat: 55/35 – Sunny; crisp November air.
