Iowa — A crisp, quiet morning is settling over Des Moines, where temperatures near 38°F are keeping roads dry but cold, with frost concerns already impacting early commuters and gardeners across the metro.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Frost Advisory is in effect late tonight into early Monday, with temperatures expected to drop to around 33°F. That’s cold enough to form frost on exposed surfaces and damage sensitive plants across Polk County and surrounding areas.
Across Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines, skies remain clear this morning with light winds near 5 to 10 mph. While travel impacts remain minimal now, the bigger concern develops after sunset. As temperatures fall quickly under clear skies, “flash freezing” could occur on bridges and untreated roads, especially along I-35 and I-80. Plan ahead if traveling late.
By Monday, conditions improve quickly with sunshine and highs near 67°F. Winds will increase slightly, with gusts reaching over 20 mph by afternoon. That warming trend accelerates into Tuesday and Wednesday, when highs surge to 81°F under mostly sunny skies.
Meteorologists are now tracking this rapid temperature swing, which may help fuel instability later in the week. By Thursday, a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms develops, followed by a higher 70% chance of storms Thursday night. While severe weather is not certain, gusty winds and brief downpours are possible.
Take action now: cover plants tonight, stay alert for slick spots late, and prepare for changing conditions.
Frost risks ease after Monday morning, but additional updates are expected as warmer, more active weather builds.
Five Day Forecast for Des Moines, Iowa
Monday: Sunny, high 67°F
Tuesday: Sunny, high 81°F
Wednesday: Sunny, high 81°F
Thursday: Chance of storms, high 77°F
Friday: Chance of showers, high 63°F
