Iowa – Cold air cuts sharply across central Iowa this morning, frosting car doors and stiffening breath within seconds. The sky stays clear, but the cold settles deep, the kind that lingers on pavement and sidewalks well after sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, temperatures dropped into the low teens early, with wind chills hovering near zero. Northwest winds keep the bite sharp during the morning hours, especially along exposed roadways like I-35, I-80, and Highway 5. Roads remain dry, but extreme cold reduces tire grip and increases stopping distance during early drives.
Conditions slowly improve by afternoon. Sunshine pushes highs into the mid-30s, a noticeable rebound, though shaded areas and bridges stay cold. Drivers should remain cautious through midday, especially where overnight frost may not melt completely.
Tonight, clouds increase as temperatures dip back toward the low 30s. Any moisture from melting snowbanks or vehicles can refreeze after dark, creating slick spots in parking lots and neighborhood streets. Saturday turns milder, with highs near 40 and lighter winds, offering a calmer travel window for weekend errands.
Sunday remains seasonably cool and quiet before a warming trend begins early next week. Highs climb into the upper 40s Monday and near 50 by Tuesday. Meteorologists are watching that shift closely. Late-December warmups often precede pattern changes, and models hint at another system approaching closer to Christmas. While snow is not expected immediately, a possible rain-to-snow changeover later next week remains something to watch for holiday travel.
For now, dress in layers and plan extra time during cold starts. Winter’s grip is firm, even on sunny days.
Five-Day Outlook for Des Moines
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 40
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 38
- Monday: Partly sunny, high near 48
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 50
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, warmer, high near 54
