Widespread Snowfall Totals Across Iowa

Amounts range from 3 to 15 inches as winter storm hits the state

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A winter storm brought significant snowfall to Iowa, with totals ranging from around 3 inches in the southwest to up to 15 inches in the northeast. Des Moines and central Iowa saw between 6 and 8 inches, while the National Weather Service office in Johnston recorded 8.7 inches. Cooler temperatures are expected to continue over the next few days.

Why it matters

Heavy snowfall can disrupt travel, close schools, and cause power outages, so the wide variation in totals across the state is noteworthy. Understanding the geographic distribution of snowfall is important for emergency planning and response efforts.

The details

The National Weather Service reported snow totals ranging from around 3 inches in Massena to between 11 and 15 inches in the Waterloo and Decorah areas of northeast Iowa. Central Iowa, including Des Moines and Ames, saw 6 to 8 inches of snow, while the NWS office in Johnston measured 8.7 inches.

  • The snowfall occurred on February 20, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings.

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What’s next

The forecast calls for cooler temperatures over the next few days, with highs in the 20s. Conditions are expected to turn dry heading into the weekend.

The takeaway

This winter storm highlights the importance of preparedness and emergency planning in Iowa, where snowfall can vary greatly even within a relatively small geographic area.