A strong winter storm is set to move through the listening area tonight (Tuesday) into Wednesday morning, potentially bringing heavy rain, blizzard conditions, and strong winds, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Rain will spread northward into Tuesday afternoon, with as much as two inches of rain expected in some areas. Around 9 p.m. Tuesday, temperatures will drop, likely turning rain into heavy snow, accompanied by strong northwest winds gusting to nearly 60 mph in our area. These winds can create whiteout conditions, leading to dangerous travel conditions. The winter storm will peak early Wednesday morning, with the worst blizzard conditions expected in western and northern Iowa. Snow will taper off by midday, but blowing snow may persist until winds weaken late Wednesday. NWS staff urge residents to prepare for dangerous travel, possible power outages, and falling tree branches.
