winter storm warning prompts early dismissals as rain turns to snow across Iowa
Officials ordered early school dismissals and canceled community activities as a winter storm warning moved into the region Thursday. Rain arriving in the afternoon is expected to change to snow after sunset, creating slick conditions for the Thursday night and Friday morning commute across much of the state.
What to expect Thursday night into Friday
Rain will spread into the area Thursday afternoon, shifting over to snow Thursday evening as colder air pushes in. The transition is timed with the loss of daytime heating, meaning untreated road surfaces can become dangerously slick between sunset Thursday and the Friday morning rush. The forecast calls for the heaviest snow north of an axis running roughly from Waterloo to Prairie du Chien, where 2 to 4 inches of accumulation is most likely. Areas south of that line are expected to see lighter totals, from a trace up to about 2 inches.
Forecasters emphasize that a few degrees’ difference in temperature will change who sees mostly rain versus mostly snow, and that variability could produce localized heavier amounts. Some forecasts referenced in briefings have suggested isolated pockets could pick up as much as 6 inches, though that would be limited and dependent on quick temperature drops and mesoscale banding. Winds will pick up behind the system, making travel gusty and reducing visibility at times.
By Friday the main system moves east; conditions will trend drier but remain blustery and noticeably colder. Temperatures are expected to stay chilly through the weekend, keeping any lingering road melt from quickly evaporating.
Closures, safety and travel impacts
School districts moved to dismiss students early and several community events were canceled as a precautionary step to limit travel during the height of the transition from rain to snow. Motorists are being urged to allow extra travel time, reduce speeds, and avoid unnecessary trips overnight and into Friday morning when surface icing and slushy lanes are most likely.
Road crews will be out treating priority routes, but untreated secondary roads and neighborhood streets can become hazardous quickly. Emergency managers recommend drivers carry a winter travel kit, keep full phone batteries, and check with local authorities for updates on road closures and school schedules before heading out. Commuters should plan for delays on corridors north of the Waterloo–Prairie du Chien line in particular, where the better chances for heavier accumulation exist.
Looking ahead
The system will clear by Friday, leaving colder air in place for the weekend. Gusty winds may produce minor drifting in open areas, but widespread travel disruptions are expected to ease once the storm departs. Residents should stay tuned to later updates as small shifts in the storm track or temperature profile could nudge the snow/rain line and alter local snowfall totals.
For now, treat the evening commute with extra caution, heed early-school and activity notices, and prepare for a blustery, colder finish to the week.
