Iowa Weather Update: Slick Roads, Snow Chances, and Strong Winds Expected

This morning, flurries across Iowa will begin to wind down, but slick roads are expected in northern and central Iowa due to refreezing after overnight sub-freezing temperatures. Travel impacts are expected, particularly for the morning commute, as residual snow from yesterday’s storm may cause slippery spots. Temperatures will be cooler today, with highs ranging from the mid-20s in the north to the mid-30s in the south. Winds will decrease as surface high pressure settles into the state, although pesky morning clouds may linger before drier air arrives in the afternoon.

Attention will then shift to an active northwest flow and embedded shortwave moving across the Upper Midwest. This system, currently in the Pacific Northwest, will track southeast through the Dakotas tonight and into Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin on Thursday. Northern Iowa will see light snow accumulation, particularly in the morning hours, with up to 0.1 inch of liquid expected. While the snow accumulation is expected to stay under an inch for most areas, there’s a 20-30 percent chance of higher amounts in northern and northeastern Iowa. The main concern for Thursday will be the strong winds following the cold frontal passage, with gusts reaching 35-45 mph, especially west of I-35. This could lead to blowing snow in rural areas, so those traveling on Thursday should be prepared for possible reduced visibility.

Thursday will bring slightly warmer temperatures, but gusty winds will make it feel colder. Winds will ease Thursday night into Friday as a high-pressure system brings in even colder air, with Friday expected to be the coldest day of the week, with highs ranging from the teens in the north to the upper 20s in the south. A brief period of flurries or light snow is possible on Saturday, but precipitation is expected to be minimal, with little to no impacts anticipated.

Looking ahead to next week, the pattern will shift toward warmer temperatures as a more zonal flow develops. This will bring milder conditions into the Christmas holiday week, with above-normal temperatures likely. The extended outlook shows an 80-90 percent chance of above-average temperatures, so those planning travel or outdoor activities can expect a break from the cold.

For aviation, scattered to broken stratus will affect flight conditions this afternoon into the evening, with conditions varying between IFR, MVFR, and VFR. By Thursday morning, light snow will return to northern Iowa, reducing visibility to around 1-2 miles, especially around KMCW. Further south, snow chances are low and won't significantly impact flight conditions at this time. VFR conditions are expected to return for most of the overnight period.

Stay tuned for further updates as conditions change, especially for Thursday’s snow and wind event.