Iowa’s gray sky is pressing low over Des Moines this morning, and the air feels raw at 31 degrees. Snow is expected to develop later today, and roads could turn slick quickly after sunset.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, snow is likely mainly after 5 p.m. with a 60 percent chance of precipitation. Daytime accumulation will stay under a half inch. Conditions worsen tonight as snow and freezing rain become likely before 1 a.m. A total of 1 to 2 inches of new snow is possible.
Temperatures fall to around 25 degrees by early Thursday. That opens the door for icy patches on I-35, I-80 and untreated neighborhood roads. Even light glazing can create hazardous travel. Plan extra time and keep distance between vehicles.
Skies gradually improve Thursday with highs near 44 and decreasing clouds. A stronger spring push arrives Friday. Sunshine drives highs to 55 degrees, melting snow piles and clearing sidewalks.
The weekend trends colder again. Saturday carries a slight snow chance before noon with highs near 37. Sunday brings a 40 percent chance of snow and highs near 30. Light accumulations remain possible into early next week.
Beyond this stretch, longer-range outlooks suggest a moderating trend heading into early March, with above-normal temperatures building after the next cold shot.
Five Day Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa:
Today: Snow likely after 5 p.m., high 34.
Thursday: Decreasing clouds, high 44.
Friday: Sunny, high 55.
Saturday: Slight chance of snow, high 37.
Sunday: Chance of snow, high 30.
