Iowa – Flags snap hard and loose snow skims across open fields as winter weather regains control today. The air feels sharper, the wind louder, and conditions turn increasingly unsettled as the week unfolds.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, gusty northwest winds develop tonight, with gusts approaching 45 mph in parts of central Iowa. These winds arrive as colder air settles in, setting the stage for periods of snow from Thursday through Saturday. While snowfall totals remain light overall, timing and wind will be key travel concerns.
Today stays mostly dry but windy, with highs near the upper 20s. Blowing snow may develop in rural areas where existing snow cover is present. Drivers along I-35, I-80, and Highway 65 could encounter sudden crosswinds, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Snow chances increase Thursday night into Friday. Light snow becomes more widespread, mainly across central and eastern Iowa. On Friday, snow showers or brief snow squalls are possible. These fast-moving bursts may sharply reduce visibility for short periods, especially during the afternoon and evening commute. Gusty winds could worsen travel conditions despite modest accumulation.
Friday night turns colder and blustery, with lows dropping into the single digits and teens. Any snow that falls may drift or blow across roads, creating uneven and slick driving conditions. Saturday brings quieter weather but stays cold, with highs only in the teens.
Looking ahead, longer-range outlooks suggest near-normal precipitation next week but continued cold nearby, keeping winter firmly in place across Iowa.
Slow down if traveling later this week, especially Friday. Secure loose outdoor items today and stay alert for sudden visibility drops. Seeing blowing snow or squalls where you are? Share what you’re noticing.
Five Day Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa
Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 36°F
Friday: Chance of snow showers, high near 37°F
Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 15°F
Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 25°F
Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 23°F
