Winter storm warning declared for Charles City area

Press Staff Report

A winter storm warning is in effect for the Charles City area today through early Wednesday, with the potential for several inches of snow.

According to the National Weather Service, the warning began at 1 a.m. today (Tuesday) and will end at 4 a.m. Wednesday, with heavy snow and light freezing drizzle expected. The high today is expected to be 33.

Total accumulations of 4 to 6 inches of snow are forecast for this area, with localized amounts up to 8 inches possible. The heaviest snow is expected between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. today.

Charles City is on a line between here and Decorah with heavier snow forecast to the north of that line and lesser amounts to the south.

Iowa counties south of that line should see 2 to 3 inches of snow, while areas north of Floyd County may see 6 to 8 inches. Areas of southeast Minnesota and southwest Wisconsin could see up to a foot of snow.  

Plan on difficult travel conditions, including during the morning and evening commutes on Tuesday. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph will cause patchy blowing and drifting snow, and significant reductions in visibility are possible.

A winter storm warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible, the National Weather Service said.

The latest road conditions for Iowa can be obtained by calling 5-1-1.

Wednesday is forecast to be clear but cool, with a high of 28. Thursday should be a little warmer, with a high of 39, then back into the high 20s for Friday and the mid- to high 30s for the weekend.