Des Moines, IA – Parts of Central Iowa woke up blanketed in fresh snow Monday as totals exceeded six inches in several counties, according to the National Weather Service Omaha/Valley office. The heaviest band of snow fell near Fort Dodge, where reports showed around 7 inches of accumulation by late evening.
According to the NWS, the storm pushed east throughout the day, coating highways from Carroll to Cedar Rapids and reducing visibility in several rural areas. Surrounding cities such as Mason City, Perry, and Ames recorded 4 to 6 inches, while lighter amounts fell toward Davenport and southwestern Iowa.
Meteorologists say this system brought the first widespread winter storm of December to the region, affecting both Iowa and portions of southeastern South Dakota. Travel conditions deteriorated quickly along stretches of Highway 20 and Interstate 35, where snowpacked lanes and icy patches caused slowdowns.
Residents are urged to monitor local forecasts as colder air settles in overnight, potentially leading to slick morning commutes Tuesday.
