Des Moines, Iowa – Strong northwest winds and scattered snow showers are set to create difficult travel conditions across Iowa Wednesday afternoon and evening, even where snowfall totals remain light.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a cold front will cross the state Wednesday afternoon, bringing wind gusts of 35 to 40 mph and periods of snow showers. While most locations will see minimal new accumulation, the gusty winds are expected to cause blowing snow, reducing visibility and pushing snow back onto roadways.
The best chance for accumulating snow is across northern and northeastern Iowa, where 1 to 3 inches are expected from late afternoon into the evening. Areas near Mason City, Fort Dodge, Waterloo, and Decorah could see locally higher totals. Snow is forecast to spread southward during the late afternoon, peak during the evening hours, and taper off by around midnight, ending last in eastern Iowa.
Even across central Iowa, including Des Moines, Ames, and Marshalltown, brief snow showers combined with strong crosswinds may lead to slick spots, especially on untreated roads and bridges. Visibility could drop quickly in open areas as snow is lofted by the wind.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions through Wednesday evening. Additional travel advisories may be issued if impacts increase.
