Des Moines, IA – A fast-moving winter storm is set to impact Iowa this afternoon, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, snowfall rates could reach up to 1 inch per hour, with total accumulations of 1 to 2 inches expected this afternoon. The heaviest snow will fall in north-central and northeast Iowa, leading to rapidly deteriorating road conditions during the evening commute. Gusty south winds of 30-40 mph will create blowing and drifting snow, further reducing visibility, particularly on east-west roads and in rural areas.
After a brief lull, a second round of winter weather is expected late tonight into Saturday. Northern Iowa will see additional snowfall, while southern parts of the state may experience a wintry mix of freezing rain and snow, with ice accumulations reaching up to one-tenth of an inch before transitioning to snow. Snow will continue in bands across central and northern Iowa, though exact accumulation patterns remain uncertain. Light snow or flurries may persist into Sunday morning.
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 3 p.m. today through 6 p.m. Saturday for northeast Iowa, including cities such as Mason City, Waterloo, and Cedar Falls. Snow totals of 3 to 5 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts possible.
Travelers should prepare for slippery roads and reduced visibility. For updated travel conditions, check the Iowa 511 app or visit 511ia.org.
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