Iowa – A prolonged stretch of cold, blustery weather is expected across Iowa, bringing frequent subzero wind chills and an increased risk of frostbite and hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, gusty snow showers and reinforcing cold fronts will continue to push wind chills below zero on a regular basis, beginning Friday night and lasting into early next week. Wind chill values are expected to range from –10°F to –25°F, with colder pockets possible during overnight and early morning hours.
In these conditions, frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 10 to 30 minutes, particularly when winds increase. Forecasters emphasize that even light snow combined with strong winds can rapidly strip heat from exposed skin.
Snowfall amounts are expected to remain mainly light, but blustery winds may cause periods of reduced visibility and drifting snow, especially in open areas. Slick roads are likely during snow showers and overnight refreezing, creating hazardous travel conditions at times.
The cold is expected to intensify over the weekend, with daytime highs struggling to reach the teens and overnight lows dropping into the single digits or below zero. Wind chills are forecast to remain below zero through much of Sunday and into Monday.
Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, wear multiple insulating layers, and ensure all exposed skin is covered when outside. Extra caution is advised for those traveling, working outdoors, or waiting for transportation.
The cold stretch is especially concerning for commuters, outdoor workers, students, and vulnerable populations, as exposure risks increase quickly in persistent wind and low temperatures.
The National Weather Service recommends closely monitoring updated forecasts and advisories as the cold pattern remains locked in across the region.
