weather story jan 18

The National Weather Service says another strong clipper system will punch into Iowa today and is forecast to move Southeast across the state. Central to Northern sections of the state can see 3 to 4 inches of new snow, which will taper off by the afternoon. The very strong winds will develop to the west and south of the clipper system, especially affecting Southwest Iowa. The strong winds will continue to develop East this afternoon affecting much of central Iowa. Although the strongest winds will not occur where the heaviest snow will fall, there will be areas where the strong wind and falling snow combine to cause blowing snow and hazardous travel. Short-lived whiteout conditions are possible and can occur in a very short time frame. After today Iowans will see a brief warm up for Sunday with highs in the 30s and 40s. This will be short-lived as a cold front will move across the state Monday afternoon bringing very cold air back to the state. The cold air and continued brisk wind will mean the potential for bitter cold wind chills early next week into the middle of next week. Marion County residents can expect approximately 2 inches of snow today.