Des Moines, IA– The National Weather Service has issued an Ice Storm Warning for parts of southeast Iowa and northeast Missouri, starting tonight and continuing through Saturday morning. Residents in the affected areas should prepare for hazardous travel conditions as a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow is expected to make roads slick and dangerous.
Tonight’s Forecast: Wintry Mix on the Way
It is anticipated that the wintry weather will start as early as nine o’clock tonight, with isolated pockets of snow, sleet, and freezing rain emerging across the region. The severity of this mixed precipitation will rise over the night, and by midnight, it is possible that the entire region will be hit by freezing rain, with some sleet and snow falling in certain spots.
In light of the fact that conditions are anticipated to be hazardous, the authorities strongly recommend that residents finish their errands and refrain from driving overnight. During this time period, the most prudent course of action is to remain inside.
Transition to Rain on Saturday Morning
The icy conditions will begin to improve early Saturday morning as warm air moves into the area. This will gradually change the wintry mix to rain. Northeast Missouri will see the transition before dawn, with the rest of the region switching to rain by around 9 AM. As the rain takes over, travel conditions should become safer through the morning and early afternoon.
Weekend Outlook
By Saturday night, temperatures are expected to drop into the low to mid-30s as the rain tapers off. Conditions will remain mostly cloudy and dry overnight. On Sunday afternoon, temperatures will rise into the upper 30s to low 40s, providing some relief after the icy start to the weekend.
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However, another round of rain is anticipated to move into the area Sunday night and continue into Monday morning, with lows in the low to mid-30s.
What’s Next: Variable Temperatures and Precipitation
It is expected that the rain will begin to lessen by Monday afternoon, leaving the region dry as temperatures rise into the low to middle 40s. On the other hand, a colder arctic air mass is anticipated to arrive in the middle of the week, which will bring temperatures that are in the 30s and lows that will plummet into the teens by Wednesday.
Additionally, there is a remote possibility of snow showers on Wednesday; however, it is anticipated that the results will be very minor at this time.
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Stay Prepared
During the period of the Ice Storm Warning, residents are strongly encouraged to be informed about the current meteorological conditions and to avoid traveling out of necessity. In addition to making sure that vehicles are prepared for winter weather, it is important to check on neighbors, particularly senior citizens who might require assistance.
The region can anticipate improved traffic conditions and a brief respite from the cooler temperatures that are scheduled to return the following week as a result of climate circumstances that are predicted to improve later in the weekend.