Des Moines, Iowa – Scattered snow showers combined with gusty winds could create periods of low visibility and slick travel across parts of Iowa on Friday, with the highest impacts expected in northern portions of the state. While snowfall amounts are expected to remain light, rapidly changing conditions may catch drivers off guard.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, light to moderate snow showers are expected to develop Friday as northwest winds increase. Wind gusts between 25 and 35 mph could lead to blowing snow, briefly reducing visibility and making travel hazardous at times, particularly across northern Iowa.
Accumulations are forecast to remain generally under an inch, but falling snow and strong winds may cause patchy slick spots on roadways, especially during bursts of heavier snow. Open and rural areas are most vulnerable to sudden visibility drops as snow is blown across roads. Travel along major corridors including I-35, I-80, U.S. 20, and Highway 30 could be impacted during snow showers.
Conditions will worsen Friday night as colder air settles in behind the system. Temperatures are expected to fall quickly, with wind chills dropping into the teens below zero to single digits below zero by late Friday night into Saturday morning. Any moisture left on road surfaces could refreeze, increasing the risk for icy conditions overnight.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions Friday. Residents should also dress in layers and limit prolonged outdoor exposure as colder air arrives.
Snow showers are expected to taper off later Friday, but cold and breezy conditions will persist into the weekend. Additional updates may be issued if impacts become more widespread.
