Extreme Cold Warning Issued for Eastern Iowa

The coldest air of the season is moving in tonight.

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for eastern Iowa starting at midnight tonight and running through noon Friday. Following that, a Cold Weather Advisory will be in place from noon Friday until noon on Saturday.

The NWS says life-threatening cold arrives tonight, lasting through the day Friday. Wind chills of 35- to 40-below-zero are expected. Highs are forecasted to stay below zero on Friday, with highs around zero on Saturday and highs in the single digits on Sunday.

The dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. The National Weather Service recommends the following in this extreme cold:

• Dress in layers, including a hat, face mask and gloves if you must go outside
• To prevent water pipes from freezing, wrap or drain or allow them to drip slowly
• Keep pets indoors as much as possible
• Make frequent checks on older family, friends and neighbors
• Ensure portable heaters are used correctly
• Do not use generators or grills inside
• Use caution while traveling – bring along a winter survival kit and blanket

Several school districts are cancelling classes on Friday, with other events being cancelled or postponed as well. Stay up to date with the latest weather-related announcements on Mix 94.7 KMCH and kmch.com.

High temperatures should rebound into the teens by early next week.

images courtesy of NWS