Des Moines, Iowa — Iowans can expect another stretch of cool, gray skies Wednesday before brighter, warmer weather arrives later in the week. A series of shifting pressure systems will influence temperatures, cloud cover, and rain chances through the weekend — and early signs point to a chilly Thanksgiving ahead.
Clouds Linger as Cool Air Holds on Midweek
Much of Iowa spent Tuesday under a blanket of clouds and brisk temperatures, and Wednesday will follow a similar pattern. A low-pressure system responsible for the gloomy skies is sliding east, but it will continue influencing the region just long enough to keep conditions cool through midweek.
As the system moves out, high pressure from Canada will begin to sink into the Midwest. This change will gradually clear skies and help bump temperatures up from the upper 40s seen Tuesday to around 60°F on Wednesday in many communities.
Chance of Showers Near the Missouri Border Late Week
By Thursday and Friday, another low-pressure system is expected to glide across the southern portion of the state. Its track will keep most of Iowa dry, but areas along the Missouri border could see scattered showers.
Temperatures will hover in the mid-50s both days — slightly cool for mid-November, but mild compared to what’s coming next week, as per the forecasts.
Sunny Weekend Ahead as High Pressure Rebuilds
If you’re ready for a pleasant fall weekend, you’re in luck. High pressure returns on Saturday and Sunday, clearing out clouds and bringing back sun-filled skies statewide.
Weekend highs are forecast to climb into the mid to upper 50s, creating ideal weather for outdoor plans, errands, or soaking in one of the last warmish weekends before winter fully settles in.
Early Next Week Brings Mild Temps, Then Rain Chances
Temperatures will stay seasonally warm heading into Monday and Tuesday, with highs in the low to mid-50s. Rain chances may increase again by Tuesday, though models are still refining the extent of that moisture.
Thanksgiving Forecast: Hype vs. Reality
You’ve probably seen posts on social media hinting at a major winter storm arriving during the Thanksgiving holiday. But meteorologists caution that many of these claims are exaggerated.
Here’s what we actually know:
- Long-range weather models have been inconsistent, with some runs showing heavy snow and others showing almost no storm at all.
- Recent model updates have backed off any predictions of a significant system.
- The threat isn’t zero — a snowy setup is still possible — but it’s not certain, and definitely not worth sounding alarms over 9–10 days out.
Forecasts this far in advance can help identify patterns, but cannot reliably pin down totals, timing, or impact. As models lock onto a more consistent scenario, meteorologists will issue clearer guidance.
What Is Certain for Thanksgiving?
One thing forecasters feel confident about: It’s going to get colder.
A plunge of Arctic air from Canada is expected to drop temperatures into the 30s, making it feel much more like winter as families gather for the holiday weekend.
Iowans should keep an eye on updated forecasts over the next several days, especially if traveling.
Will the colder Thanksgiving change your holiday plans? Drop your thoughts, questions, or weather worries in the comments below!
