Des Moines, Iowa – Snow showers combined with strong winds are expected to create hazardous travel conditions across much of northern and central Iowa Sunday, as Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, snow showers and blowing snow will affect a broad portion of the state, with snow accumulations near one inch. Despite relatively light snowfall totals, wind gusts up to 45 mph are expected to significantly reduce visibility and create dangerous driving conditions.
The advisory remains in effect until 9 p.m. CST for northwestern and north-central Iowa, including Emmet, Kossuth, Winnebago, Worth, Cerro Gordo, Webster, Calhoun, Sac, and Pocahontas counties. A second advisory takes effect from noon to 9 p.m. CST for central and northeastern Iowa, including Ames, Waterloo, Marshalltown, Waverly, Cedar Falls, and surrounding communities.
Forecasters warn that periods of sharply reduced visibility are likely, especially in open rural areas where blowing snow may rapidly cover roadways. Even brief snow showers may cause sudden whiteout conditions, particularly on east–west oriented highways.
In addition to travel hazards, the National Weather Service cautions that strong wind gusts could bring down tree branches, potentially leading to isolated power disruptions.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions throughout the day. The Iowa Department of Transportation recommends checking real-time roadway updates via the Iowa 511 system, available online or by dialing 511.
Officials also advise limiting outdoor exposure due to wind chill effects and dressing in layers if travel is unavoidable. Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Sunday night as winds weaken.
