Iowa winter storm warnings

What a winter storm warning means

A winter storm warning means a significant winter storm is happening or is expected within about 36 hours. It can be issued for heavy snow, a mix of snow and sleet, or snow with freezing rain. Each local National Weather Service office sets its own criteria based on what disrupts life in that area, so a few inches can trigger a warning in the South while northern and mountain offices use much higher snowfall totals.

More about winter storm warnings and the national map →

What to do

• Avoid travel if you can. If you must drive, carry a winter kit with blankets, water, a shovel and a phone charger.
• Charge devices and prepare for power outages.
• Bring pets inside and protect pipes from freezing.
• Check on older neighbors and relatives.