Central Iowa Experiences Rainy Christmas Eve
TL/DR –
Heavy rain is expected to hit Central Iowa, starting from the southwest and moving northeast. The rain will likely continue overnight into Monday afternoon, with high temperatures early in the day falling into the 30s by evening. A possibility of wintry precipitation in the form of freezing rain or snow is expected over the western parts of the state on Monday, and the rainfall could total between 0.5 and 2.5 inches across the state.
Central Iowa Weather Update
Central Iowa is expecting widespread rain moving northeast. Starting in the southwest as early as mid-morning, progressing northeast till afternoon. Winds are forecasted to be breezy, with 20-25 mph speeds from the southeast, and gusts topping 30mph. The rain is likely to continue overnight till Monday afternoon as the primary low pressure system lifts northwards and begins to retrograde. Temperatures will drop to 30s by Monday evening.
Break in Rain and Snow Forecast
Dry air will briefly enter the system, causing a break in the rain from late Monday to Tuesday for some parts of the state. Continuous dry periods are not expected until after Wednesday. Wintry precipitation, such as freezing rain/snow, is probable over western parts of the state from Monday morning. A brief period of freezing rain may occur along HWY 71 and points west, resulting in a thin layer of ice which should change into light snow as the temperature drops.
Precipitation Amounts and Weather Forecast
Probable rain amount is 0.5 to 2.5″. Heaviest rain is likely along the I-35 corridor and into western Iowa. All of Central Iowa will experience a good amount of rain. View the Interactive Radar | Weather Alerts.
Forecast for Christmas Eve Night: More rain showers. Low 50F. Winds ESE at 10 to 20 mph. Christmas Day: Steady moderate rain till early afternoon. Morning high of 52F, with temperatures dropping during the day. Winds shifting to the SW at 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 20 mph.
Christmas Night: Cloudy, possible wintry mix in western Iowa. Low 31F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Tuesday: Rain and snow showers at times, otherwise cloudy. High near 37F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. Tuesday Night: Cloudy with a few showers. Snowflakes may mix with the rain. Low near 30F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
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