Iowa — Gray skies hung low over central Iowa early Monday as damp pavement reflected streetlights and breath fogged the air. The first full week of winter began quietly in Des Moines, but subtle changes ahead will shape Christmas travel plans across the region.
As of early morning, temperatures hovered in the mid-30s with overcast skies. Winds stayed light, keeping the air calm but chilly. Today turns brighter by afternoon, with sunshine pushing highs into the low 50s. That warming trend helps melt lingering frost, though bridges and shaded roads may stay slick early, especially along I-235 and I-80.
Tonight cools back into the mid-30s under mostly cloudy skies. No precipitation is expected, but wet spots could refreeze briefly before dawn. Drivers heading out early Tuesday should stay alert for isolated slick patches.
Tuesday remains quiet and seasonable. Sunshine mixes with clouds as highs reach the mid-40s. Winds shift northeast but stay light, offering a calm winter day for errands and short trips. By Wednesday, temperatures rebound again, climbing into the low 50s with mostly cloudy skies.
Attention then turns to Christmas Eve. Latest trends show mild and dry conditions across Des Moines, with highs near the low 60s. That’s well above average for late December and favorable for holiday travel. Still, winter isn’t far away. Colder air lingers to the north, and any late-week cooling after rain elsewhere could reintroduce flash-freeze concerns regionally.
For now, Iowa drivers catch a break. Keep an eye on early morning frost, allow extra time during colder starts, and enjoy the calmer stretch. Winter may be quiet this week, but patterns can change fast. How does your commute feel this morning?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa
Monday: Mostly sunny. High near 53.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High near 46.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. High near 51.
Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy and mild. High near 62.
Friday: Mostly sunny. High near 50.
