Des Moines, IA – Iowa is bracing for a major Arctic blast that will sweep across the state starting Saturday, November 30, delivering dangerous wind chills and icy road conditions through the first week of December.
According to the National Weather Service, a powerful Arctic front moving south from Canada will send temperatures plummeting across the Midwest. The Climate Prediction Center forecasts a 70–80% chance of below-normal temperatures for Iowa, with daytime highs struggling to reach the 20s and overnight wind chills dropping below zero.
Drivers traveling along I-80 and I-35 should expect rapidly deteriorating road conditions, with blowing snow and refreezing possible Sunday night into Monday morning. The Iowa Department of Transportation warns that untreated roads could become slick as temperatures tumble and winds increase.
This Arctic outbreak marks the first widespread winter event of the season, stretching from the Dakotas through the Great Lakes and down into the central Plains. The pattern will reinforce a deep national temperature divide, with the southern and eastern states remaining relatively warm as the north endures a deep freeze.
Residents are encouraged to dress in layers, check heating systems, and keep emergency kits in vehicles. Farmers and livestock owners should also prepare for extreme cold conditions lasting into the following week.
