Iowa – A soft orange glow spreads across the Des Moines skyline as a calm breeze lifts the last brittle leaves from sidewalks. Pavement stays dry and cool, but the air carries a quick warmth that feels more like early October than mid-November. The mild start disguises deeper changes building behind the scenes.
According to the National Weather Service Des Moines office, residents should take advantage of today’s sun and warming trend as south winds increase through midday. According to meteorologists, gusts may approach 20 mph by afternoon along I-235 and I-80, occasionally pushing high-profile vehicles. The wind remains manageable, but loose holiday decorations or yard debris may shift.
Saturday brings thicker clouds and a cooler feel as a weak front slides through central Iowa. Light showers are possible late morning into early afternoon, though amounts appear minor. The front’s bigger impact comes through falling temperatures and stiff northwest winds late Saturday, with gusts near 25 mph across open fields.
Sunday brightens quickly, but the cooler pattern holds. High temperatures drop nearly 20 degrees from today’s warmth, giving the city a sharper, brisk feel more typical of November’s midpoint.
The next system arrives Monday and Tuesday. Rain chances rise Monday afternoon, followed by a colder push Monday night. Models hint at a possible Tuesday “Winter Tease,” with a low-end chance of snow mixing in early. Impacts stay limited for now, though early commuters should watch for colder pockets near bridges or elevated ramps if temperatures dip faster than expected. This marks a developing pattern that could grow more active as Thanksgiving approaches.
Five-Day Outlook for Des Moines, IA:
Fri: 74/54 – Sunny; breezy south winds.
Sat: 68/37 – Clouds thickening; slight showers; turning windy.
Sun: 54/37 – Mostly sunny; cooler.
Mon: 51/33 – Partly sunny; 40% rain chance late.
Tue: 45/33 – 40% rain; early mix possible.
