Des Moines, IA — A wintry mix of freezing rain and drizzle will target Iowa Friday evening into Saturday morning, creating hazardous travel conditions. Motorists should exercise caution, especially along Interstate 80, where light ice accumulations could create slick roads.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Des Moines, freezing rain will begin Friday evening, with accumulations up to 0.2 inches in northern areas. Central Iowa will see less than 0.1 inches. As temperatures rise overnight, precipitation will transition to rain Saturday morning, alleviating ice concerns but increasing water pooling risks.
By Saturday, daytime highs will reach 39°F, melting much of the accumulated ice. However, overnight lows near freezing could cause refreezing, adding further risks. Communities north of I-80 should prepare for the most significant icing.
Five-Day Outlook:
• Thursday Night: Partly cloudy with lows around 8°F. Wind chills as low as -5°F.
• Friday: Highs near 29°F under partly sunny skies. Freezing rain begins late evening.
• Saturday: Rain continues with highs near 39°F. Travel disruptions are likely during the morning hours.
• Sunday: Mostly cloudy with highs reaching 43°F.
• Monday: A 30% chance of rain, highs near 44°F.
Residents should monitor forecasts and avoid unnecessary travel during the freezing rain period Friday night. Preparations, such as de-icing driveways and ensuring vehicles are winter-ready, are highly recommended. Travelers should allow extra time or consider alternate routes to avoid potentially hazardous areas along I-80.