Dense Fog Advisory Issued: Be Alert

A Dense Fog Advisory has been issued across much of eastern Iowa, heralding a morning of challenging visibility and potential slick travel conditions. The advisory remains effective until late morning, with visibility dropping to as low as one-quarter mile.

Travel Cautions During Dense Fog Advisory

As fog lingers, motorists are advised to exercise heightened caution on the roads. Temperatures are currently near or below freezing, raising concerns about ice formation. Travelers should remain alert for these conditions, especially in areas where fog is most prevalent.

Weather Outlook for Today

Conditions are expected to improve later today, transitioning to partly to mostly sunny skies. This afternoon, temperatures will rise significantly, reaching the upper 30s to low 50s. This warmth marks the warmest day of the week thus far.

Rain Forecast for Eastern Iowa

Looking ahead, the weather is set to change. Clouds will begin to accumulate tonight as temperatures drop into the 30s, preparing for an impending storm system. By Thursday morning, rain is forecasted to affect southern areas of eastern Iowa and will gradually spread northward throughout the day.

• Expected rainfall: 0.25 to 0.75 inches
• Heavy rain potential: Up to 1 inch in localized areas
• January average precipitation for Cedar Rapids: 0.95 inches

The rain is anticipated to taper off by Thursday night. This precipitation is quite unusual for January in Iowa, as such amounts typically occur during warmer months.

Chances of Snow Later in the Week

A brief dry period may occur on Friday; however, the arrival of another weather system is likely to shift rain to snow. As temperatures cool further, especially with northerly winds influencing the air, there may be increased chances of snowfall on Friday night into Saturday.

• Forecast: Light snow accumulation possible
• Temperatures: Highs in the upper 20s to low 30s

Although a major winter storm is not expected, there is potential for some disruption from accumulating snow. Factors such as warmer ground temperatures from previous weather may limit accumulation. As the weekend approaches, expect colder conditions with lows in the teens and highs in the 20s.

Updates will be provided as the situation develops through the El-Balad channels, including the El-Balad Weather App and local broadcasts.