Des Moines, IA – A strong northwest wind is set to sweep across Iowa Tuesday night, bringing gusts up to 45 mph and the potential for brief snow showers, according to the National Weather Service in Des Moines.
After a mild day Tuesday, winds will rapidly increase during the afternoon and evening before peaking overnight. Gusts out of the northwest are expected to remain strong through Wednesday morning, with the highest readings across northern and central Iowa, including Mason City, Fort Dodge, and Ames.
Forecasters warn that the combination of strong winds and occasional snow showers could briefly reduce visibility, especially in open and rural areas. Drivers should be alert for sudden wind gusts, particularly on north–south roadways, and secure any loose outdoor objects or holiday decorations ahead of time.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve by Wednesday afternoon as winds begin to diminish, though temperatures will turn sharply colder behind the front.
