Iowa – A gray, biting sky hangs over central Iowa this morning as wind sweeps across open fields and pavement turns slick with early frost. The calm look will not last. A developing winter system is pushing toward the region, and Des Moines sits squarely in its path as moderate to heavy snow builds Saturday evening through late Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Watch is now active for Polk County and much of central Iowa. Meteorologists expect a fast-moving burst of 4 to 7 inches of snow, with the heaviest rates likely after sunset Saturday. Roads may turn hazardous quickly, especially along I-35, I-80, and major Des Moines arterials as temperatures hold near the freezing mark and wind increases.
Residents should plan ahead for holiday-season travel. Snow may start light Saturday afternoon, but heavier bands could settle in by early evening. That timing matters; visibility may drop sharply during store runs, shift changes, and late-day returns from shopping or events. Any slushy mix on pavement risks flash freezing as temperatures fall toward the teens by early Sunday.
Models also hint at a broader December trend. A stormy pattern may return across the Upper Midwest from Dec. 11–17, bringing periodic lake-effect snow chances for Iowa’s neighbors and renewed travel challenges as holiday movement ramps up. For now, central Iowa should stay alert for fast-changing winter conditions and prepare for slow driving Saturday night.
Plan extra time if traveling Saturday evening. Keep shovels and ice melt ready, and check road conditions before heading out.
Five-Day Outlook
Today: Mostly sunny, high 34.
Tonight: Mostly cloudy, low 20.
Saturday: Snow chance, high 27.
Saturday Night: Heavy snow, 4–7″, low 14.
Sunday: Partly sunny, high 20.
Monday: Partly sunny, high 28.
