Des Moines, IA – A Freeze Warning is in effect across much of central and western Iowa from 2 a.m. to 9 a.m. Thursday, with the National Weather Service in Des Moines warning that temperatures could dip as low as 26 degrees overnight.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), areas including Des Moines, Ames, Fort Dodge, Carroll, Waterloo, and Atlantic will see widespread frost and subfreezing conditions by early morning. This marks one of the coldest nights of the season so far, signaling the end of the growing season for much of the state.
Officials say low temperatures between 26 and 32 degrees may cause damage to unprotected vegetation and outdoor plumbing. Gardeners and homeowners are urged to cover sensitive plants, disconnect hoses, and drain outdoor faucets before temperatures fall overnight.
The NWS warns that even brief exposure could kill remaining crops or flowers, especially in rural areas prone to colder lows. Skies will remain mostly clear overnight, allowing heat to escape quickly and temperatures to plummet before sunrise.
Temperatures are expected to rebound slightly into the mid-40s to low-50s by Thursday afternoon, but another frost advisory could follow Friday morning if calm, dry conditions persist.
