Iowa — Headlights glow softly through a gray veil this morning as fog settles across fields and highways. Visibility drops quickly, and familiar roads feel uncertain. This is a slow-start Christmas for much of the state.
Widespread fog blankets Iowa early today. Conditions improve at times in eastern and southern Iowa, but western and northern Iowa may stay foggy much of the day. Some areas also see patchy drizzle, keeping pavement damp and slick. Highs range from the mid-30s north to low 50s south, mild for late December but deceptive for travel.
Drivers should expect changing visibility through the morning and afternoon. Fog thickens in low-lying areas and near rivers. Reduced sightlines increase crash risk, even at lower speeds. Use low-beam headlights and allow extra stopping distance.
Tonight brings another shift. Whatever fog lifts today returns and expands, becoming widespread again overnight. The highest risk for dense fog develops across northwest and north-central Iowa, where low clouds lock in moisture. Visibility may fall below a quarter mile in spots. Travel conditions deteriorate again after sunset.
Fog likely persists into Friday morning, especially north. Central and southern Iowa may see gradual improvement later Friday, with cloudy skies statewide and a touch of sunshine possible in the southwest. Roads remain damp, but widespread icing is not expected at this time.
Saturday looks more favorable for travel overall. Clouds thin at times, and visibility improves before a cold front arrives Saturday night into Sunday. That front ushers in much colder air, gusty winds, and a chance for snow showers, signaling a more traditional winter pattern heading into next week.
