DES MOINES, Iowa – A powerful storm system that brought significant snowfall to Iowa has moved off to the northeast, leaving behind frigid temperatures and blowing snow. The state is experiencing continued strong winds out of the northwest, bringing in some of the coldest air seen in years. Rural, flat, treeless areas are particularly affected by the blowing snow. A weak disturbance from yesterday’s system will pass through Iowa, bringing another round of light snow today. This will contribute to the already existing blowing snow and the threat of ground blizzards. The National Weather Service has extended the Blizzard Warning until Saturday evening for the northwest quadrant of the state, where blizzard conditions have been verified.
Iowa will also face dangerous cold temperatures over the coming days. The state is expected to experience subzero temperatures for approximately 72 hours, with wind chills that can reach extremely dangerous levels. Frostbite can occur within just a few minutes in these conditions, so individuals are urged to take extreme cold precautions. Despite this, a warming trend is predicted for midweek, with temperatures returning to the middle teens.
Many businesses, churches, and other locations across Iowa have closed for the weekend due to the severe weather conditions. For an updated list of closures, residents can refer to the provided link.
The forecast for today in Iowa includes cloudy skies with light snow and windy conditions. Additional snow accumulation of 1-2 inches is expected, along with blowing snow and ground blizzards in rural areas. Tonight will bring mostly cloudy skies, with a low temperature of -17F and hazardous wind chills. Tomorrow will remain mostly cloudy, with a high of -6F and similar hazardous wind chills. Tomorrow night will see partly cloudy skies, with a low of -18F and continued hazardous wind chills.
Overall, Iowa is facing a severe winter weather event with heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously cold temperatures. Residents are advised to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period of extreme weather.