Storm brewing: Meteorologist discourages Christmas travel

Travelers planning to leave Plymouth County this Christmas may likely be stuck.

A major winter storm is expected to blow into northwest Iowa and surrounding areas Wednesday and continue through Christmas Eve (Thursday) and into Christmas Day (Friday).

"Any travel that might be planned on Christmas Eve really needs to be reconsidered," said Greg Harmon, a meteorologist with the Sioux Falls National Weather Service, Monday.

"The way it's looking right now, either don't travel or perhaps get out on Wednesday or sooner," he said.

In northwest Iowa the first round of snowfall will start Wednesday and become widespread that afternoon and during the night. Warmer temperatures will create a potential for freezing rain and sleet through the area Wednesday night into Thursday, according to the Sioux Falls National Weather Service website.

That means the largest threat for continued snowfall has shifted more through eastern South Dakota and northern portions of southwest Minnesota, the website stated.

In northwest Iowa Thursday and into Thursday night, widespread snowfall is expected. North to northeast winds are likely to reach 25 to 35 mph later Thursday through Friday. Areas of blizzard or near blizzard conditions are probable, according to the website.

"This is going to be a massive storm. It's going to be multi-state," Harmon said Tuesday. "The duration is going to last Wednesday through Friday."

As of Monday, almost all of Nebraska and the northern part of Kansas were already under storm watches, Harmon said.

Unlike the storm earlier this month, this week's major winter storm won't bring with it the arctic Canadian chill. Temperatures will likely be in the mid-teens to mid-20s above zero, he said.

"Temperatures are not going to be brutally cold," Harmon said. "But with those type of temperatures, the snow will likely be a lot slicker so travel will be hazardous even though it may not blow as much."

Harmon said there's not much chance right now the storm is going to miss Iowa, but there is some good news.

"Those that do get to their travel destination for Christmas can anticipate that they should be able to get home safely after Christmas," Harmon said. "The weekend looks dry with a lot less wind."

He cautions would-be travelers to use care if they decide to venture out this Christmas.

"Pay special attention to the forecast updates," Harmon said. "Plan your travel so you don't get stuck in a major winter storm we know is going to occur."