Iowa — A dull gray sky hangs low over central Iowa this morning as light snow brushes across Des Moines. Fine flakes drift sideways in a light breeze, just enough to coat untreated roads and make travel tricky during the early hours.
The National Weather Service says light snow remains possible across central Iowa through the morning. Accumulations stay under a half-inch, but cold pavement temperatures near the lower 20s increase the risk of slick spots. Even small amounts of snow can create problems when tires meet frozen asphalt.
Drivers in Des Moines should expect patchy slick roads, especially on bridges, ramps, and side streets. Main roads may appear wet but can turn icy without warning. Plan extra time and avoid sudden braking through mid-morning.
Conditions improve by late morning as snow tapers into flurries and clouds begin to thin. Afternoon highs reach near 31 degrees, limiting melting. Any slush that develops may refreeze quickly after sunset as temperatures fall into the teens.
Wednesday turns calmer and brighter. Sunshine returns, and highs climb into the mid-30s. Roads improve, but shaded areas may remain icy early. Wednesday night stays cold, setting up a sharp temperature contrast heading into Thursday.
Thursday brings a noticeable shift. Mostly sunny skies and highs near 48 degrees feel almost springlike for early February. Snowpack melts quickly during the day, creating wet pavement and standing water in low spots. Once temperatures drop Thursday night, refreezing becomes a concern.
Friday stays dry and sunny with highs in the lower 40s. That warmth continues into the weekend, though nights remain cold enough for icy patches after dark.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook shows above-normal temperatures expanding across the Midwest late next week. Signs point toward a gradual thaw, even as winter still lingers.
Watch for slick roads early today and refreezing later this week. How are road conditions where you’re driving this morning?
Five Day Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa
- Tuesday: Light snow early, high near 31
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 34
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 48
- Friday: Sunny, high near 43
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 39
