2010 is going to end with a bang across the state today. From snow, sleet and freezing rain across the northwestern half of the state where Winter Weather Advisories and Winter Storm Warnings are in effect to possible thunderstorms across the southeastern sections. Temperatures will be wide ranging as well, with temperatures well into the 50s to near 60 in SE Iowa, where temperatures in NW Iowa may not get out of the teens. The first cold front has nearly gone through the entire state this morning, but another low pressure to the SW will lift a warm front back through the SE sections thus leading to warm temperatures in those areas.

Thunderstorms that do form across the SE sections may have some wind gusts up to 40mph and hail up to dime sized, but severe weather will mainly stay well to the south of the state (but expect the unexpected).

All precipitation should end late this evening, where possible “flash freezing” could take effect in areas where snow has melted and may refreeze as temperatures crash later this evening and overnight. Be aware for slick spots on roads as you head out.

The new year will bring more average temperatures for early January with highs generally in the 20s to around 30 and lows in the teens.