Des Moines, Iowa – A potent clipper system is moving through Iowa late Wednesday night into Thursday, bringing light rain, gusty winds, and the potential for a dusting of snow across the state, meteorologists say. Residents should prepare for rapidly changing conditions, including cold temperatures and strong wind gusts, before a milder weekend arrives.
Clipper System Brings Rain and Snow
The weather system will push through Iowa late Wednesday night, resulting in light rain accumulations of around 1/4 inch or less. Northern parts of the state may see a brief dusting of snow on Thursday as colder air accompanies the system.
Officials warn that visibility may be reduced in areas experiencing fresh snow, especially as winds increase dramatically, reaching gusts of up to 45 mph Thursday.
Thursday Temperatures and Winds
Temperatures on Thursday will briefly reach the low 40s in the morning before dropping back into the 20s by late afternoon. Residents are advised to exercise caution while driving, particularly on roads affected by snow and strong winds.
Friday: Chilly Morning, Milder Afternoon
The colder air will settle in overnight Thursday, leading to a frigid Friday morning. Lows are expected to bottom out in the upper single digits to low teens, with wind chills near zero, creating hazardous conditions for early commuters.
By Friday afternoon, south/southwest winds return, pushing temperatures into the mid-30s, while an elongated area of low pressure centered over Minnesota will keep the state in cool but dry conditions. Any precipitation from this system is expected to remain over Lake Superior and move eastward.
Weekend Outlook: High Pressure Brings Sunshine
A high-pressure system will dominate this weekend. While Saturday may be mostly cloudy, Sunday is expected to bring sunshine and slightly cooler highs in the upper 30s to low 40s.
Forecasters say Iowa will remain mostly dry in the extended forecast, with systems bypassing the state to the north and south, and a gradual warming trend will continue heading into the Christmas week.
Day-to-Day Forecast
- Today (Wednesday): Clouds in the morning, warming into sunshine by afternoon. Rain showers expected late Wednesday night. High near 47°F. Winds S at 10–15 mph, gusts up to 20 mph.
- Tonight: Rain showers before daybreak Thursday. Low near 38°F. Winds SSW at 15–20 mph, gusts up to 25 mph.
- Thursday: Showers before sunrise, then windy with falling temperatures. Near 40°F early, dropping into the 20s by afternoon. Chance of afternoon snow showers. Winds NW at 20–30 mph, gusts up to 40 mph.
- Thursday Night: Generally fair. Low near 13°F. Winds NW at 15–25 mph.
Christmas Week: Warmer Temperatures
Iowa is forecasted to experience milder temperatures heading into Christmas, with highs reaching the middle 40s for much of the week. Christmas Day itself may see highs in the mid to upper 40s, potentially touching 50° in some locations, leaving little chance for a white Christmas this year.
Are you ready for the sudden temperature swings and strong winds this week in Iowa? Share your preparations for the cold snap, snow chances, and holiday weather plans in the comments below to help your community stay informed.
