Des Moines, IA – A powerful late-fall pattern change will grip the Midwest through Thanksgiving weekend, ushering in sharply colder air and renewed chances for snow from Iowa to Illinois and northeast Missouri. The same front responsible for Thursday’s holiday rain will pave the way for subfreezing highs and a possible wintry mix during peak return travel late Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, below-normal temperatures are strongly favored from November 28 through December 4 across eastern Iowa, northwest Illinois, and northeast Missouri. Highs are expected to hover in the 30s, with lows dipping into the 20s—about 10 to 15 degrees below seasonal norms. The Climate Prediction Center also indicates above-normal precipitation, suggesting that several systems could bring a mix of rain and snow into early December.
According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, slick conditions are possible Sunday night into Monday, especially along I-80 and U.S. 20. Northwest winds could gust 25–35 mph behind the front, reducing visibility in open areas as temperatures plunge. Farther south, St. Louis and central Missouri may see a cold rain transitioning to wet flakes by early Monday.
Travelers are urged to prepare for rapidly changing conditions, monitor NWS updates, and carry emergency kits as Arctic air surges in. Homeowners should protect pipes and outdoor plumbing, while motorists are advised to check antifreeze levels and tire pressure before long drives.
