Des Moines, IA – Drivers across the Des Moines metro and much of northern Iowa should prepare for reduced visibility and potentially slick roads beginning late Monday and continuing into Tuesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, fog is expected to develop Monday night, with freezing fog possible in areas where temperatures remain below 32 degrees. Forecasters warn that ice may accumulate on untreated roads, bridges, sidewalks, and overpasses, creating hazardous travel conditions for the Tuesday morning commute.
The fog is expected to become more widespread overnight, particularly in northern Iowa, and could be locally dense at times. Visibility may drop quickly in some areas, increasing the risk of accidents during early morning travel.
Meteorologists say freezing fog forms when supercooled water droplets freeze on contact with cold surfaces, leading to thin but slippery ice. Areas with existing snowpack are especially vulnerable to frost and ice buildup.
Temperatures overnight are forecast to remain below freezing across much of central and northern Iowa, allowing icy patches to develop even where snowfall has not occurred. Conditions are expected to gradually improve after sunrise Tuesday as temperatures slowly rise and fog dissipates.
The National Weather Service urges drivers to take extra precautions, including slowing down, increasing following distance, and using low-beam headlights in foggy conditions. Pedestrians are also advised to use caution on sidewalks and steps that may appear wet but are actually icy.
Officials recommend allowing extra travel time Tuesday morning and remaining alert for sudden changes in visibility. Even short stretches of fog can significantly reduce reaction time on roadways.
Residents should continue monitoring local forecasts and weather alerts for updates overnight, especially if planning early morning travel.
