Shocking Weather Alert: Iowa Braces for Snow, High Winds, and a Sudden Temperature Drop- Don’t Miss This!

Iowa is preparing for a day of turbulent weather as a powerful storm system moves across the state on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for central Iowa, including Polk and Warren counties, effective from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM CDT. Residents can expect a mix of thunderstorms, gusty winds, and late-season snow. This sudden shift in weather will bring hazardous conditions, and local authorities are advising residents to stay alert.

What to Expect

As of early morning on March 19, Iowa is experiencing calm conditions, with clear skies and temperatures around 52°F (11°C). However, the weather will change drastically as the day progresses. By the afternoon, strong north winds will begin to pick up, with gusts expected to reach up to 60 mph in some areas. Alongside the high winds, scattered thunderstorms will develop, particularly in the northern parts of the state. A slight chance of small hail accompanies these storms, adding to the risk of dangerous driving conditions.

The temperature will drop sharply, with highs expected to only reach 46°F (8°C) by the afternoon. This cold front will bring cooler air into the region, and as rain turns to snow, residents should prepare for 2-4 cm of snow accumulation by the evening. This late-season snowfall is not expected to cause major disruptions, but it will add to the already challenging weather. Overnight, temperatures will plummet to a low of 25°F (-4°C), making it feel much colder than it did earlier in the day. If you’re planning to be out in the evening, make sure to dress warmly, as the wind chill will make it feel even colder.

Thursday, March 20 – Brighter but Breezy

Things will begin to calm down on Thursday, March 20, though the weather will remain cooler and breezy. The morning will feature some sunshine, but clouds will quickly roll in, leaving behind a partly cloudy sky. Highs will remain chilly, only reaching around 50°F (10°C), and lows will dip to 38°F (4°C). While the snow from Wednesday’s storm will be mostly gone, the gusty winds will continue, making the day feel much colder than it is.

Friday, March 21- A Brief Break from the Storms

By Friday, March 21, Iowa will see some improvement in the weather. The skies will clear up somewhat, with partly sunny conditions expected throughout the day. The temperatures will start to recover slightly, with highs reaching around 57°F (14°C). However, expect a few clouds and the possibility of afternoon showers. The evening will cool down to around 26°F (-3°C), so make sure to bundle up if you’re out and about after dark.

Safety Precautions

With high winds and the possibility of snow, Iowa residents should take steps to protect themselves and their property. The National Weather Service advises securing any outdoor objects that could be blown away by strong winds. For those traveling, be cautious of wet roads, downed trees, and reduced visibility during thunderstorms. If you’re caught in the storm, stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Power outages are also a concern, as high winds could cause trees and power lines to come down. It’s a good idea to have a flashlight, batteries, and other emergency supplies on hand in case of an outage.

Looking Ahead

March 19 will bring a chaotic mix of severe weather conditions to Iowa, including thunderstorms, high winds, and even snow. The storm will create hazardous travel conditions, so residents are urged to stay informed and take appropriate precautions. Stay indoors when possible, and if you must travel, be prepared for sudden weather changes. By staying safe and being prepared, Iowans can make it through this wild weather event.