As January progresses, Iowa is preparing for some of the coldest weather of the season. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings for dangerously low temperatures and wind chills that could dip as far as -50 degrees with the windchill factor in this system. This is all thanks to an incoming polar vortex. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in the coming days.

Credit: Canva
Credit: Canva
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The Arctic blast is set to descend on Iowa through the weekend, bringing with it a significant drop in temperatures. While light snow showers may accompany the cold front, the main concern is the arrival of frigid air that will grip the state.

Credit: National Weather Serivice
Credit: National Weather Serivice
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And when we say frigid, we mean it. As the cold front settles in this weekend, temperatures across Iowa will plunge well below average. Many areas will see highs struggling to get above zero, with nighttime lows dipping into the negative double digits. Wind chills will exacerbate the cold, with some parts of the state experiencing dangerously low wind chills, averaging around -25 degrees, but further North areas could see wind chills of -40 to -50 degrees in this system.

Credit: National Weather Service
Credit: National Weather Service
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This Arctic air mass is expected to linger for several days, possibly through January 24th. This brings prolonged exposure to extreme cold across the state. The coldest period is set for this weekend, with subzero temperatures and harsh wind chills persisting. Colder than average temperatures will likely stick around through the end of January, but there should be a slight reprieve from the negative digits.

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The National Weather Service is urging Iowans to take the extreme cold seriously. Limit outdoor activities, dress in multiple layers, and ensure all exposed skin is covered to prevent frostbite, which can occur in minutes under these conditions. It's also important to bring pets indoors and check on vulnerable neighbors. It is also extremely important to plan any roadway travel safely. Packing an emergency kit is essential with dangerously low temperatures, should an accident occur.

While the cold snap will dominate the weather in Iowa for a good portion of late January, temperatures are expected to moderate slightly as we move into February. Until then, staying informed and prepared is key to navigating this period of extreme cold. I would also like to remind you to check your furnace exhausts. With the extreme cold temperatures it is likely that an icicle will form and could potentially block the exhaust causing furnace failure and malfunction. Stay safe, Iowa, and make sure to follow updates from the National Weather Service to stay ahead of this challenging weather pattern.

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