Des Moines, IA – Rapid snowmelt and rising river levels could become a concern across Iowa as a surge of springlike warmth expands from the Midwest south to the Gulf Coast before St. Patrick’s Day.
According to NOAA’s 8-14 day outlook issued February 26 and valid March 6-12, there is a 70-80% probability of above normal temperatures stretching from the central Plains through the Midwest and into the Deep South. Iowa sits firmly inside that high-confidence zone, signaling highs that could run well above early March averages statewide.
In Des Moines, where typical early March highs hover in the low 40s, afternoon readings could climb significantly higher. Cedar Rapids and Iowa City are also expected to see milder afternoons and warmer overnight lows, limiting refreezing but accelerating the thaw of any remaining snowpack across central and eastern counties.
Farther north and west, Sioux City may see a noticeable shift toward late-March-like conditions as the warmer air mass settles in. The broader pattern connects Iowa to a larger warm corridor influencing Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee during the same March 6-12 window.
Periods of rain are also possible as an active storm track sets up east of the Rockies. Combined with melting snow, that could lead to ponding on roadways and rising water levels along the Des Moines, Cedar and Mississippi rivers.
Drivers should watch for standing water on I-80, I-35 and U.S. 20 during heavier downpours. Residents in flood-prone areas should monitor local river forecasts as this warm stretch holds through March 12, with additional updates expected as the timeframe approaches.
