National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Winter Storm Departing Northeast; Strong Winds in Southern California

A winter storm in the Northeast U.S. will depart today with heavy snow in the region and over a portion of the central Appalachians tapering off through this afternoon and evening. Lake effect snow downwind of the lower Great Lakes and a potential for blinding snow squalls over the Ohio Valley will linger through tonight. Strong offshore Santa Ana winds are expected today in southern California. Read More >

Des Moines, IA

Weather Forecast Office

Wind Information Page

Weather.gov > Des Moines, IA > Wind Information Page
            Current Conditions
                           Staying Safe
Current Watches, Warnings, and Advisories Latest Weather Story

A Wind Advisory means that sustained winds of 30 mph for one hour and/or frequent gusts of at least 45 mph are occurring or expected within the next 36 hours. These winds will make it difficult to drive high profile vehicles. Small, unsecured objects may be blown around by these winds.

A High Wind Watch means that sustained winds of 40 mph for one hour and/or frequent gusts of at least 58 mph are expected within the next 12 to 48 hours. Check to make sure all loose objects outside are secured. Plan to postpone any unnecessary driving during this time since these winds will make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. These winds may damage trees, power lines and small structures.

A High Wind Warning means that sustained winds of 40 mph for one hour and/or frequent gusts of at least 58 mph are occurring or expected within the next 36 hours. Ensure that all objects outside are secured. Refrain from any unnecessary driving during this time since these winds will make driving very difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Winds this strong may damage trees, power lines and small structures.

Latest Forecast

 
 
Click each image above to view a larger version. The tonight time period runs from 6pm to 6am CST.

2 Day Hourly Wind Speed and Wind Gust Graphs

Current Conditions

Current Surface Map
(Temperature, Dew Point, Winds, and Weather) - How to Decode Wind Charts		 Highest Wind Gusts Recorded Today

Staying Safe

Below is a listing of ways you can reduce the inconvenience or damage done by strong winds:

  • If strong winds are forecast, ensure that all lightweight or loose objects on your property (grills, patio furniture, trash cans, small toys, etc.) are secured or brought indoors.
  • Strong winds make driving high profile vehicles very difficult and sudden wind gusts can cause one to lose control of these vehicles. Pay extra attention to the road if you must drive a high profile vehicle and be prepared for sudden changes in the wind. Try not to drive on roads that are perpendicular to the wind direction (ex. N-S roads with a W-E wind).
  • Remove dead or rotting trees on your property long before a high wind event. Weak trees can fall over in even a moderately strong wind and possibly damage structures and take out power lines.
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