Winter Storm: Dec. 23-25 Update #3

Some hefty snow falling across Iowa currently, with some very large flakes being reported in many areas.  Thus far I currently measure 3.25" of snow, with snow currently falling at a 1"/hour rate.  There is some fairly hefty snow falling across parts of the state currently, with 2"/hour or heavier snow rates likely in the heaviest band.  Latest snowfall reports show widespread 2-4" across northern Iowa with some heavier amounts over north-central Iowa.  Expect the snowfall to continue throughout the night, with total accumulations of 4-8" likely over northern Iowa with perhaps some isolated higher amounts.  Forecasts are still on track for 18"+ for northwest and north-central Iowa; and 10-15" across the remainder of northern Iowa.  Ice accumulations are also becoming a problem across the central portions of the state, with a tenth to over a quarter inch already reported.  Hazardous travel conditions have been ongoing for some time, with reports of multiple cars in ditches in several counties across the state.

We may see some breaks in the snow come tomorrow, but expect travel to continue to be hazardous through Friday and much of the day Saturday.  Snow totals look very impressive with this system, and with winds on the increase and the snow becoming lighter expect drifting to be a big concern as well.  An update in the morning will give the latest snowfall measurement here, and hopefully some graphical representation of the snowfall across the state as well.