Winter Storm Watch Issued for Much of Eastern Iowa

By Justin Gehrts, Meteorologist

Tools

By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Feb 22, 2012 at 4:09 PM CDT

Story Updated: Feb 22, 2012 at 4:10 PM CDT

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — A very complex winter storm will bring a wintry mix across the area Thursday, turning over to wet snow as the day wears on. At this time, it appears the morning commute will not be greatly affected by winter weather. However, the evening commute could be slower.

Through the morning, a wintry mix of rain and snow will move into areas generally north of Interstate 80, with areas south looking at mainly rain. In areas experiencing the rain/snow mix, it will likely switch back and forth a few times through the day. After noon, colder air will turn precipitation over to wet snow areawide. Accumulation will be slow on pavement unless the snow starts falling heavily. Heavy snow certainly is possible from time to time, and occasional thunder can’t be ruled out. Locations that experience thundersnow will have road conditions worsen most quickly.
At this time, it appears the greatest potential for the higher snowfall totals is for areas generally north of Highway 20. Widespread totals of 3” or higher are possible. South of Highway 20, a rain/snow mix should help prevent much accumulation until the afternoon and evening. Some accumulation is possible, but it looks like it will mostly be under 3”.

This winter storm, as mentioned, is very complex. There is some disagreement among the data we’re looking at. Any small change in the storm track will greatly affect snowfall totals. If the storm moves farther north, more rain and less snow can be expected. If it moves south, more snowfall is likely. Very local temperature differences could also cause some areas of one town to be having heavy snow, while another part of town has just rain.

The entire First Alert Storm Team will continue to watch this winter storm and its snowfall potential. We’ll update our forecasts as we get more information. Again, we must stress that any small change in the storm’s track will greatly affect what specific weather conditions each part of our area sees.

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