Iowa – Snow suddenly thickens across open stretches of road this morning, while wind snaps flags straight out and pushes loose flakes sideways. Visibility drops fast inside heavier bursts, and familiar routes can feel disorienting within minutes. Conditions are changing quickly, and timing matters today.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Des Moines and much of central Iowa through this evening. Snow showers and snow squalls are expected to sweep in from the northwest, spreading southeast through the day. Brief but intense snowfall rates may reduce visibility to near zero at times. Wind gusts between 35 and 45 mph will worsen blowing snow, especially on exposed roads.
Most areas will see less than an inch of accumulation, though a few spots could approach two inches under stronger squalls. The bigger concern is impact, not totals. Roads can go from wet to slick quickly, and travel may deteriorate with little warning. Expect difficult driving along I-35, I-80, and I-235, particularly during the morning and evening commute windows.
Temperatures rise briefly near 34 degrees before falling sharply this afternoon. As snow tapers tonight, colder air pours in. Any melted snow refreezes, setting the stage for black ice by early Saturday.
The weekend stays bitter. Saturday remains blustery with highs near 14 and wind chills dipping below zero. Sunday moderates slightly but stays cold. By MLK Day Monday, sunshine returns, yet highs struggle near 17. Overnight wind chills from tonight through Monday morning may plunge 15 to 25 degrees below zero, increasing frostbite risk.
Plan ahead today. Slow down during snow bursts, avoid sudden braking, and keep winter emergency supplies nearby. Limit exposure during extreme cold, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Five-Day Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa
Today: Snow showers and squalls, windy, high near 34
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, blustery, high near 14
Sunday: Partly sunny, breezy, high near 32
MLK Day Monday: Sunny, very cold, high near 17
Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 31
