Des Moines, IA – The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for much of northern and central Iowa as moderate to heavy snow is expected to move through the region Saturday afternoon and night.
According to the National Weather Service Des Moines office, snow will begin in western Iowa early Saturday afternoon—around 12–3 p.m.—before spreading eastward toward Des Moines and Ames between 3–6 p.m. Eastern Iowa, including Cedar Rapids and Davenport, will see snow arrive by 6–9 p.m.
The heaviest snowfall is forecast to occur between 6 p.m. and midnight Saturday, with totals ranging from 3–6 inches across much of central Iowa and locally higher amounts near Fort Dodge and Mason City. Snow will taper off Sunday morning.
Officials warn of snow-covered roads and hazardous travel, particularly Saturday evening through early Sunday. Drivers are advised to use caution, reduce speeds, and allow extra travel time. Residents should also be prepared for slick sidewalks and take care when shoveling snow.
The storm marks the first significant snowfall of December for much of Iowa, and temperatures are expected to remain below freezing through the weekend.
