Iowa — Cold air grips central Iowa early this morning, with gray clouds hanging low over Des Moines. The chill is sharp now, but change arrives fast as milder air pushes in, setting up a noticeable February swing that drivers and families will feel by afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, clouds break later today, allowing temperatures to climb toward the upper 40s. Southwest winds increase through the day, making it feel brisk despite the warming trend. Roads remain dry, but the rapid thaw may create damp pavement ahead of sunset.
Tonight clears out, and temperatures dip back into the mid-30s. Friday stays breezy, with highs near the lower 40s and northwest wind gusts approaching 30 mph. Those winds may affect travel on I-35, I-80, and open rural highways, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Friday night turns colder. Lows drop near 20 degrees, raising concerns for flash freezing where moisture lingers from daytime melting. Side streets, bridges, and shaded areas could turn slick late, even without new precipitation.
Saturday remains quiet but cool. Sunshine dominates, while highs hold near the upper 30s. Saturday night clouds return, and lows settle near the upper 20s. Sunday brings the most noticeable shift. Skies turn sunny, and temperatures rebound near 50 degrees, offering a brief taste of springlike air across central Iowa.
Looking ahead, Monday turns even warmer, with highs reaching the lower 60s. NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook shows above-normal temperatures favored across the Midwest into mid-February, signaling fewer winter disruptions after this weekend.
Dress in layers, watch for slick spots after dark, and secure loose outdoor items ahead of gusty winds. Feeling the temperature swing where you live? Tell us how conditions are changing in your neighborhood.
Five Day Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa
• Today: Becoming mostly sunny, breezy, high near 49
• Tonight: Mostly clear, cooler, low near 34
• Friday: Partly sunny and windy, high near 42
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, cooler, high near 39
• Sunday: Sunny and milder, high near 50
