Snow, freezing rain and wind expected into Saturday

January 17, 2020 at 8:20 am CST

Contributed graphic The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm advisory for portions of southwest Iowa, including Union, Ringgold, Taylor, Adams and Adair counties. This system is expected to drop 3 to 6 inches of snow and a tenth of an inch of ice on the region today. Wind gusts of up to 50 mph are also expected.

DES MOINES – Snowfall returns to Iowa today as a strong low pressure system
takes aim on the region.

According to the National Weather Service, the snow may be heavy at times during the morning and afternoon hours before transitioning to freezing rain or drizzle by late afternoon and evening today.

Snow accumulations nearing 6 inches will reside in north central Iowa, with 3 to 4 inches expected further south, followed by icing amounts around a tenth of an inch throughout tonight.

On Saturday morning, a strong cold front sweeps through the state, bringing with it very strong winds, falling temperatures, and possibly additional light snowfall. Winds switch to out of the northwest and gust up to 40 to 50 mph during the morning hours Saturday, then remain windy through the remainder of the day. This could lead to periods of near blizzard conditions in parts of central and north central Iowa.

Motorists are advised to slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state can be obtained by calling 511.