Chilly Iowa Sees Slight Snow Chances This Weekend

After a frigid start, temperatures will climb but remain cold ahead of potential light snowfall on Sunday.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 5:47am

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After a frigid morning with temperatures near zero, sunshine will help warm things up a bit this afternoon in Iowa, though it will still be a chilly day with highs only in the low 20s. Clouds will increase tonight as a quick-moving storm system brings a chance of light snow on Sunday, mainly over eastern and northeastern parts of the state. Accumulations are expected to be light, with a dusting to a half-inch for most areas, though a few spots could see up to an inch. Temperatures will finally climb above freezing on Sunday, reaching the mid-30s.

Why it matters

Iowa's winter weather can have a significant impact on daily life, from travel conditions to energy usage. This forecast provides important information to help residents prepare for the changing conditions over the next few days.

The details

The cold start to the day will give way to more sunshine, allowing temperatures to climb a bit compared to Friday, but it will still be a chilly afternoon with highs only reaching the low 20s. Overnight, clouds will increase as a storm system approaches, bringing a chance of light snow on Sunday, mainly over eastern and northeastern parts of the state. Accumulations are expected to be light, with a dusting to a half-inch for most areas, though a few spots could see up to an inch. Temperatures on Sunday will finally climb above freezing, reaching the mid-30s.

  • Early this morning, temperatures were near zero across Iowa.
  • Overnight, temperatures will drop to the mid-teens, with winds keeping wind chills in the -10 to -15°F range.
  • On Sunday, light snow showers are expected to develop in the morning, primarily over eastern and northeastern Iowa, and continue into the afternoon.
  • Highs on Sunday are forecast to reach the mid-30s, the warmest temperatures since the cold snap began.

The players

Iowa

The state that is the focus of this weather forecast and forecast.

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What’s next

Residents should monitor the weather conditions and be prepared for potential travel impacts from the light snow on Sunday, especially in eastern and northeastern parts of the state.

The takeaway

While Iowa will see a brief respite from the extreme cold, with temperatures climbing above freezing on Sunday, the state is still in the grip of winter weather that can disrupt daily life. Residents should stay informed and prepared as the forecast evolves.