Winter Storm Warnings in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines sits squarely in the heart of the Midwest, where cold Arctic air regularly collides with moisture streaming up from the south. Over the 13-year period from 2012 through 2024, the city averaged 22.9 inches (58.0 cm) of snowfall per year — enough to make winter a serious season, though not an extreme one by Great Plains standards. The heaviest accumulations tend to cluster in January, February, and December, when temperatures regularly bottom out around an average winter low of 18°F (−7.8°C) and conditions are right for prolonged snow events.
Truly significant single-day snowfalls are relatively rare here. Analyzed across that same span, Des Moines recorded an average of roughly 0.1 heavy-snow days per year — meaning a notably intense snowfall event happens only about once every ten years or so. That rarity is precisely why a Winter Storm Warning demands attention when it is issued.
A Winter Storm Warning means the National Weather Service expects dangerous winter conditions that could seriously impact travel and safety. Importantly, the snowfall thresholds that trigger a warning differ from one region to another — what qualifies in Des Moines may not match the criteria used in a snowier northern state or a southern city unaccustomed to winter weather. Always follow guidance from your local forecast office.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 22.9 in (58 cm) |
| Snowiest months | January, February, December |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 18°F (−7.8°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0.1 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Des Moines within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Des Moines winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Des Moines right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Des Moines, Iowa. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Des Moines get winter storm warnings often?
Des Moines sees moderate snowfall in a typical winter, with winter storm warnings during the stronger systems. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Des Moines?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Des Moines?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Iowa authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Cedar Rapids, IA
- Winter storm warning in Omaha, NE
- Winter storm warning in Kansas City, MO
- Winter storm warning in Rochester, MN
- Winter storm warning in Overland Park, KS
- Winter storm warning in Sioux City, IA
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.