Des Moines, Iowa – Drivers across western and northern Iowa should prepare for snow-covered highways by the Thursday evening commute as up to 5 inches of accumulation moves in starting at 3 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 3 p.m. Thursday until 6 a.m. Friday for much of western into northern Iowa. Snow totals between 2 and 5 inches are expected, with the potential for a narrow band of heavier snowfall developing overnight.
Snow will spread from west to east Thursday afternoon, possibly beginning as rain or a mix before turning to all snow. Roads along U.S. Highway 20, Iowa Highway 4, and stretches of Interstate 35 near Fort Dodge and Algona could become slick before sunset. Communities including Emmetsburg, Estherville, Humboldt, Sac City, Carroll, and Denison are all under the advisory.
The Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes face the greatest disruption. Iowa DOT officials urge drivers to slow down, allow extra travel time, and monitor conditions through the Iowa 511 app or by calling 511. Even light snowfall rates can create icy bridges and untreated secondary roads.
Snow tapers toward daybreak Friday, but lingering slick spots may persist through midmorning. Additional advisories could be issued if heavier snow bands develop overnight.
