Central Iowa is bracing for another winter storm as the region welcomes 2025 with snowy weather expected to impact travel and daily routines. The wintry conditions, which have already begun to roll across various parts of the state, are set to create treacherous driving situations, especially during morning rush hours.
On Thursday, January 1, weather advisories have been issued for 22 counties, stretching from Crawford and Cass counties in western Iowa to Johnson and Washington counties in the east. Severe weather warnings are urging residents to prepare for potential disruptions caused by the snow, which has begun to blanket the area since early morning hours.
Forecasts indicate snow accumulations could reach between two to four inches across Central Iowa, creating slippery road conditions for commuters. The snow began hitting western Iowa around 4 to 5 AM, and by 7 to 9 AM, central regions like Des Moines were expected to see the heaviest snowfall. This timing poses challenges for drivers, with the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) working to manage icy and snowy roads.
According to local meteorologists, "the snow is moving in from the west this morning and we will see road conditions deteriorate through the AM hours." Visibility has already been affected, particularly with heavier bands of snow reporting whiteout conditions under one mile. Even lighter flurries are expected to complicate matters, leading to reduced visibility and potentially hazardous driving conditions.
This precipitation is not just limited to one day; the storm system is projected to produce additional snow this weekend. After the current snowfall, which expected to wind down by early afternoon, forecasts indicate the chance of another snowfall event starting Saturday night, continuing through Sunday. The main focus for this upcoming storm will likely be on southern Iowa, with lighter accumulations as one travels north.
Colder temperatures will follow, with highs barely reaching the freezing mark on certain days. Weather reports suggest lows dipping down to the teens and single digits next week, which will keep any accumulated snow intact, prolonging winter conditions even after the storm systems pass.
On Thursday, several school districts are already announcing closures and delays due to severe weather forecasts. Schools including those from Carroll, Madrid, and North Polk have made arrangements for two-hour delays, and childcare facilities are also impacted. "Beautiful Beginnings Childcare in Polk County is closed Thursday," one report noted. While most students are off from school, this remains a timely reminder of weather's influence on everyday life.
The snow continues to blanket the roads, requiring caution from all drivers. "Road conditions are impacted by the thick band marching this way," reports indicate; this band affects the visibility and could lead to significant travel delays for anyone on the roads. DOT crews will continue to monitor conditions, but significant winter weather requires extra attention and care from motorists.
After Thursday's snow, forecasters will focus on the specifics of the upcoming weekend storm, which will emerge after midnight Saturday. The characteristics of this storm system remain subject to change, but it is expected to clip southern Iowa, bringing additional snow showers particularly to areas south of the I-80 corridor.
Transportation officials are emphasizing the importance of preparedness as these winter weather trends persist. With icy roads likely to remain until even next week, drivers are advised to exercise caution, allow extra time for travel, and uphold road safety protocols.
Local officials encourage residents to stay up to date on weather forecasts, watch for road conditions via interactive radars, and heed any weather alerts. Keeping informed will help manage the challenges brought on by the winter months.
To summarize, as Central Iowa faces the impacts of the winter storm, staying safe and informed will be key for residents. Whether it's adhering to school closures, preparing for snowy roads, or watching the progression of storms throughout January, the New Year is starting off with challenging weather conditions.