Winter storm warning issued, warns of hazardous conditions in Eastern Iowa

Meteorologists issued a winter storm warning for most of Iowa, warning of high-intensity snowfall, strong winds and hazardous travel conditions this week.

The “potent and prolonged” winter storm will sweep through Eastern Iowa on Monday night into early Wednesday morning, according to the National Weather Service Quad Cities bureau. It should bring two to three periods of heavy snowfall Monday night and during the day Tuesday.

Much of the area could receive 6 or more inches of snow through that period.

Cedar Rapids has an 85 percent chance of seeing more than 6 inches of snow, and a 27 percent chance of more than a foot. Chances increase farther south: Ottumwa has an 88 percent chance of seeing 6-plus inches of snow, and a 36 percent chance of seeing more than a foot.

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Snow should be falling by 6 p.m. Monday in Cedar Rapids. It may continue until around 9 p.m. Tuesday night.

Strong winds around 40 mph may plague Eastern Iowa Tuesday night and could produce significant blowing and drifting snow. Meteorologists expect at least moderate weather impacts across the region, including hazardous driving conditions and disruptions to infrastructure. Major impacts — such as dangerous or impossible driving conditions — may be possible.

The NWS Quad Cities bureau advised residents to prepare their home before the storm’s arrival: Buy supplies in advance, and have a plan in case you lose power or can’t leave your home. Prepare your vehicle by stocking it with a safety kit and cold weather gear.

Brittney J. Miller is the Energy & Environment Reporter for The Gazette and a corps member with Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on under-covered issues.

Comments: (319) 398-8370; brittney.miller@thegazette.com