Des Moines, IA – Iowa residents can expect a colder-than-average Thanksgiving week with significant wind chills and a chance of snow by midweek. Those traveling for the holiday should prepare for falling temperatures, gusty winds, and potential road impacts.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, Monday starts with cloudy skies, clearing by afternoon with highs in the upper 30s. Gusty northwest winds will create wind chills as low as 26°F. Overnight lows will drop to the mid-20s under clear skies.
Tuesday will feel slightly warmer with highs near 43°F, but increasing clouds will set the stage for a 30% chance of light rain or snow on Wednesday afternoon. Thanksgiving Day will be dry but cold, with highs near 32°F and lows plummeting to 18°F.
The real cold snap arrives Friday into the weekend, with daytime highs in the teens and 20s and overnight lows falling to single digits. By early Sunday, wind chills may dip below zero across much of the state.
Travelers should monitor forecasts closely and plan for delays if snow or icy conditions develop, especially on major routes like I-80 and I-35. Ensure vehicles are winter-ready and pack emergency supplies for long trips.
This week’s colder weather marks the start of an early winter pattern for Iowa, so bundle up and drive cautiously.
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