Iowa is set to experience hazardous winter weather as a widespread winter weather advisory kicks in from Friday evening until Saturday. An ice storm warning has been issued for eastern Iowa, with areas including Grinnell, Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City anticipating significant ice accumulation. The warning is expected to begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and will remain in effect until noon on Saturday.
Meteorologists forecast that ice accumulation could reach up to half an inch in certain regions, posing risks for travel due to potentially treacherous road conditions. While the storm has been delayed, the expected freezing rain will likely start between 5 and 7 p.m. in western Iowa, with central and northern areas seeing it after 7 p.m. and eastern regions around 10 p.m.
Wind chills are predicted to be particularly low, ranging from the single digits to mid-teens on Friday. Temperatures will gradually warm throughout the day, but bitterly cold conditions in the morning could still cause hazardous situations for those traveling.
For residents of Des Moines, ice accumulation could reach about 0.25 inches. The city will see a warming trend through the day, but early morning wind chills may dip to sub-zero temperatures.
Due to these weather conditions, Des Moines Public Schools have canceled evening activities and postponed an ACT testing session for Saturday. Smaller districts across the state are following suit, cancelling their Friday evening sporting events and other activities.
Travelers are advised to take precautions, such as dressing warmly and preparing a winter safety kit. Checking road conditions is highly recommended, particularly on bridges and overpasses where ice can form quickly.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the situation also prompts an opportunity for communities to come together to assist one another and share resources to stay safe during this winter weather event.
Overall, while the forecast indicates potential disruptions, there is a sense of unity and resilience that can be found in facing such challenges together within the community.