Winter Storm Update: Feb 25-26

The rain has been changing over to snow across the state, here in Ames the change-over occurred around 3 PM with very large flakes falling. The large flakes continue to fall and have picked up to a moderate to heavy rate. These types of snows are likely to accumulate quickly on the ground, the question now is how long the snow will continue to fall behind the change-over.

Expect the change-over to occur in Des Moines before 4 PM, as it is occurring along a southwest to northeast line that seems to be directly behind the bright band that is located from Marshalltown to Ames to Guthrie Center and presumably continues outward from that axis. The winter storm warning was canceled for central Iowa as the change from rain to snow occurred much later than previously expected. Nonetheless, expect snowfall totals to still range from 2-5 inches with a few heavier amounts may be possible if the snow continues to fall heavy at times. Eastern Iowa is still holding onto the winter storm warning, however accumulations should still only be in the 4-7 inch range as the change to snow occurs and it may likely fall later into the night as the low continues to move east.

Winds still also expected to pick up overnight, potentially creating some blowing snow in open areas. However with rain this morning a majority of the snow may be able to stick to the ground and not blow around as easy.