As the post-Thanksgiving travel rush intensifies, Des Moines, IA faces significant winter weather this weekend. Starting Saturday, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect, with heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions expected to affect both locals and those traveling through the area.
If you’re heading out today or Sunday, prepare for 6 to 9 inches of snow across much of Iowa. Snow accumulations are expected to pile up rapidly, especially as winds gust to 35 mph, creating dangerous, blowing snow that will reduce visibility and cause hazardous driving conditions. I-80 and I-35 are expected to be hit hard, so be prepared for delays and travel disruptions if you’re moving across these routes.
The Winter Storm Warning is in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday, with heavy snow continuing to accumulate well into the night. By Sunday morning, conditions may worsen, as roads will be slushy and slippery, particularly in central and northern Iowa. If you must travel, keep extra winter gear in your car — including blankets, flashlights, and food — and monitor road conditions closely using resources like the Iowa 511 app or local radio.
As temperatures hover around 27°F, the snow will remain wet and heavy, making clearing efforts difficult. Travel is expected to be very difficult to impossible in some areas. For those returning from holiday trips or preparing for the workweek, extra travel time is essential, and reconsidering non-essential travel is advised.
What to expect next week: After the snow moves out, cold air settles in, with morning lows dipping into the teens and highs struggling to break 30°F. Snow chances remain into Monday, with a chance of light snow throughout the week.
Five-Day Outlook for Des Moines, IA
- Saturday: Snow, high 32°F, low 27°F
- Sunday: Snow continues, high 32°F, low 22°F
- Monday: Cloudy, chance of snow, high 28°F, low 21°F
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high 26°F, low 17°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 27°F
