Thanksgiving delivered sunshine but unusually cold weather across Iowa — and the calm will not last. A powerful winter storm is set to move in this weekend, bringing heavy snow, hazardous travel conditions, and frigid air across much of the state.
On Thanksgiving morning, temperatures fell into the teens and low 20s, with northwest winds producing wind chills near 10 degrees. Afternoon highs only reached the mid-30s, well below seasonal averages.
When Does the Winter Storm Arrive?
According to KCCI, cloud cover will increase tonight as the storm approaches Iowa. Friday begins dry but cold, with highs near freezing. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday night through Sunday morning.
Timeline of the Storm
- Friday afternoon: Snow reaches western Iowa
- 6–8 PM Friday: Snow spreads into Des Moines
- Overnight Friday: Snow moves into northern & eastern Iowa
- Saturday:
- Central & southwest Iowa may see a short break early
- Northern & eastern Iowa will see steady, intensifying snow
- Saturday night–Sunday morning: Snow slowly tapers off
Temperatures will be cold enough for all snow statewide, although brief sleet or rain may mix in near the Missouri border.
Roads will be snow-covered and travel will be difficult until Sunday.
How Much Snow Is Expected?
Forecasters expect widespread heavy snowfall across Iowa:
- Most of Iowa: 3–4 inches
- Central & Eastern Iowa: Up to 10 inches
- Des Moines: 6–10 inches possible
- Isolated areas: More than 10 inches depending on storm track
The exact location of the heaviest snowfall may shift slightly as the storm approaches.
Cold Weather Continues After the Storm
Once snowfall ends Sunday morning, temperatures will fall even further. Highs will stay in the teens and 20s into midweek with partly cloudy skies and a colder-than-normal pattern across the state.
