A Winter Storm Warning continues throughout the day today as the threat shifts to blowing snow and a return of bitter cold to the area.
Snow will continue to fall until the evening hours, with another 4 to 6″ expected through tonight. As of 6AM this morning, 5 1/2 to 7 inches of snow have been reported in the county. Travel will remain troublesome for many as snow is expected to fall through the evening hours. Sustained winds as high as 20 miles per hour and gusts up to 30 will cause low visibilities. Temperatures are expected to drop overnight, and coupled with the increased winds, will result in dangerous wind chill values as low as -15°. Exposure to these wind chills will result in frostbite in as little as 30 minutes.
State, city and county plows are in operation, and area officials urge caution when driving. The Iowa State Patrol reports that area roadways may be 100% snow covered, and may be slick. There are many reports of vehicles in ditches throughout the overnight and early morning hours. Be sure to give our first responders and road crews plenty of room to work.