February has brought an unusual warmth, with temperatures reaching into the 50s, 60s, and even 70s in recent days. However, a winter chill is set to return, as forecasts indicate the possibility of heavy snowfall across parts of eastern Iowa on Thursday evening.
In response to the impending weather conditions, Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories have been issued for certain regions. Rain is expected to begin in the early afternoon, around 1 p.m., gradually transitioning to snow after 5-6 p.m. This storm poses a significant threat due to the abundant moisture and atmospheric lift, which could result in heavy snow accumulation.
Weather models indicate that some areas within the warning zones could see between 6 to 8 inches of snow. As precipitation changes from rain to snow throughout the evening, roads are likely to become slick and hazardous, continuing into Friday morning.
The snow is forecasted to persist until approximately 3-4 a.m. on Friday, potentially leaving roads snow-covered and difficult to navigate until they are adequately cleared.
This notable shift back to winter weather serves as a reminder of the season’s unpredictability, but communities are likely to pull together to ensure safety and effective response to the challenges posed by the storm.