Light Snow and Slippery Roads in Central Iowa: What You Need to Know for Safe Travel Tonight

Central Iowa is experiencing light snowfall tonight, which is making roads slippery. This is especially true for key highways such as I-80 and Hwy 30. If you’re planning to drive, it’s important to stay alert, as the snow can lead to hazardous conditions.

Elevated surfaces like bridges and overpasses are particularly dangerous, as they freeze faster than regular roads. You may notice light snow accumulation in some areas, but the snow will continue until early morning. As the temperature drops further, the conditions will only get worse, making travel riskier.

Snowfall and Winds: What to Expect Tonight

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has reported that the snow is likely to continue until about 4 a.m. The additional snowfall expected is minimal, with less than half an inch predicted.

However, it’s important to understand that the wind could be a bigger problem. With winds gusting at speeds up to 24 mph, visibility on the road could be significantly reduced. This is especially true on open stretches of road with no shelter from the wind.

Drivers are advised to reduce their speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and stay extra cautious when driving through areas with low visibility.

Cold Temperatures and Wind Chill: Thursday’s Forecast

As the snow continues to fall tonight, the temperature will continue to drop. By Thursday morning, temperatures will be a chilly 17°F. With the wind chill factored in, it will feel like -5°F. That’s very cold, so make sure to dress warmly if you have to go outside.

The afternoon will bring some relief with clearer skies, but don’t expect it to get much warmer. The temperature will only rise slightly to 17°F, and another cold night is expected with temperatures dropping to 8°F.

What to Expect on Friday and Saturday

Friday’s weather will improve slightly with partly sunny skies. Temperatures are expected to reach 29°F, which is still cold but not as extreme as earlier in the week.

On Saturday, temperatures may rise to 36°F, but don’t expect a warm day. The sky will remain mostly cloudy throughout the day, and conditions will stay chilly.

Travel Tips: Stay Safe on the Roads

If you plan to travel tonight or early Thursday morning, it’s important to keep an eye on the latest road conditions. The Iowa Department of Transportation provides real-time updates on road conditions, which can be very helpful if you are traveling.

You may want to consider postponing your trip if it’s not urgent, as some travel disruptions are expected. The conditions will likely be hazardous for a few hours, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you do need to drive, take extra care on highways, and remember that visibility may be poor due to the snow and wind.

Monitor Weather Updates for the Weekend

Conditions in Iowa can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast regularly. Even though temperatures may rise slightly later in the week, freezing conditions are expected to continue through the weekend. This means that icy roads, especially in the mornings, could remain a concern. If you are planning to travel later this week, make sure to plan ahead and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.

Conclusion

To summarize, central Iowa is facing light snow, cold winds, and slippery road conditions that could cause delays for travelers tonight. With snow expected to continue until early Thursday morning, visibility will be reduced, and the roads will be hazardous.

Temperatures will remain low, with wind chills making it feel even colder. If you need to travel, make sure to stay updated on the latest weather and road conditions and take extra precautions when driving. By staying prepared, you can ensure your safety during this challenging weather period.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.