[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0JVc7doo7w&w=640&h=480]
SNOW DAYS SNOW DAYS: Snow is on the way and a White Christmas for most if not all the state as well. Snow will begin breaking out in the western counties by late morning into the early afternoon and spread east during the day. It is likely going to start out as rain in the far southern and southeastern counties and perhaps a mix in the eastern and central counties before switching over to snow. The amounts of snow will depend on when the switchover occurs. If it takes longer for it to occur, the amounts will be lighter especially in the eastern and southeastern counties. Right now it looks like there will be a moderate to heavy snow band across the center part of the state from southwest to northeast. The heaviest snow looks to be over the northeastern counties where upwards of 10+ inches of snow are possible (again these are dependent on the timing of the rain to snow switchover). Far NW and far SE Iowa may get a few inches with the areas in the middle getting roughly 4-9″ at most. Gusty north to northwesterly winds will kick in late Wednesday night and especially Thursday which may lead to blizzard or near blizzard conditions across the large section of the state. If you are going to be traveling later tonight into Thursday, there is a good likelihood that roads may be closed or impassable due to blowing and drifting snow. Flights at all the airports are likely going to see many delays and cancellations (especially Thursday morning). Make sure you have an emergency winter survival kit with you in your vehicle if you are planning on traveling. Best advice would be to put off any travel until at least Friday if you can help it. There are likely going to be tow bans enforced, meaning if you go off the road, you will be stranded there until the ban is lifted or happen assisted.
AFTERMATH: With a snow pack after this storm, we’re not going to be seeing 40s and 50s anymore, anytime soon. Readings will be below seasonal levels entering the weekend into Christmas. Highs in the 20s and lows in the single digits to near 10. If we can get a clear sky and calm winds, sub-zero readings are likely Saturday and perhaps Sunday morning as well.
GOING FORWARD: The pattern shows a few disturbance in the near-term around Christmas time but the models diverge on what it may bring for Iowa and the Upper Midwest. There is a good likelihood of a severe weather episode across the south around Christmas or the day after (for anyone that may be going in that direction). Readings look to remain in the 20s to near 30 and lows in the single digits to lower teens.