We are still on track for winter to return as we head toward the first day of Spring late this week. There is still uncertainty regarding exact amounts, which will ultimately depend on timing of the transition from rain to snow late Thursday. However, the latest forecast indicates a HIGH potential for measurable snowfall across most of the region, with the greatest potential for 4 inches or more from southern South Dakota into southwest Minnesota.
The storm system late this week will bring sharply colder air into the region late Thursday into the weekend. With rain and wet snow expected on Thursday, the rapid drop in temperatures may lead to a Flash Freeze on roads and sidewalks. The cold combined with breezy winds will also lead to a potential for sub-zero wind chills by Friday morning. If you care for livestock, you may wish to provide extra protection for those at risk from increased cold exposure.
A Strong Storm System will bring a chance of snow to the region for Thursday through Thursday night. The potential of seeing 4 inches or more of snow is highest from western Nebraska into northern Nebraska and southern South Dakota.
Light rain or drizzle will spread into the region from the south late today into tonight, gradually diminishing through the day Wednesday. Rainfall amounts up to a quarter inch should be confined to parts of northwest Iowa, which could lead to minor rises on area rivers and creeks. Temperatures will be seasonably mild, with highs in the 40s to lower 50s, and lows tonight in the mid to upper 30s.
Chances for precipitation are in the forecast through the week. More widespread rainfall is expected tonight and into the first half of Wednesday bringing over a half inch of rain to much of the state. Another system approaches the region on Thursday and brings mild temperatures along with showers and thunderstorms. Some of the storms Thursday may be strong to severe. Much colder and windy conditions follow Friday along with chances for rain and/or snow early in the day.
A strong storm will be tracking across Iowa Thursday, bringing along with it thunderstorms and the potential for some severe weather during the afternoon and evening. At this time, the higher risk of severe storms should remain in the south and southeast with the main threats expected to be large hail and possibly some damaging thunderstorm winds.
Rain and snow late this week will be accompanied by increasing northerly winds Thursday afternoon and night. These gusty winds may lead to areas of blowing and drifting snow, especially while the snow is falling. Be prepared for late week travel to be impacted by this return of wintry weather.
