If you think this winter has already been tough, buckle up—Central Iowa is about to be hit with some of the coldest weather of the season. Starting Saturday night and lasting through Wednesday, wind chills will stay below zero for over 100 straight hours.
The National Weather Service in Des Moines is warning that frigid temperatures and strong winds will make it feel as cold as -30°F at times. In these conditions, frostbite can happen in just minutes, and spending too much time outside can be downright dangerous.
Here’s what you need to know to prepare and stay safe.
When Will It Be the Coldest?
- Saturday Night: The deep freeze begins, with wind chills dropping below zero.
- Sunday through Wednesday: The worst of it—wind chills between -15°F and -30°F day and night. Even during the “warmest” part of the day, it’ll still feel bitterly cold.
- Late Next Week: Temperatures might start to rise slightly, but they’ll still be well below average.
Areas like Des Moines, Ames, Mason City, and Fort Dodge will feel the worst of it.
Why Is This Such a Big Deal?
This kind of cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Here’s why:
- Frostbite Can Happen Fast. Skin can freeze within minutes when wind chills drop this low. Fingers, toes, noses, and ears are most at risk.
- Hypothermia Risk. Even if you’re wearing warm clothes, prolonged exposure can cause your body temperature to drop to dangerous levels.
- Car Troubles. Extreme cold can drain car batteries, thicken motor oil, and make icy roads even more dangerous. If you get stranded, it can quickly become a life-threatening situation.
- Frozen Pipes. Homes and businesses with poor insulation could see pipes freezing and even bursting.
- Increased Power Demand. Heating systems will be working overtime, which can strain the power grid and lead to higher energy bills.
How to Stay Safe During the Deep Freeze
- Stay Inside as Much as Possible. If you don’t absolutely need to go out, stay warm indoors.
- Dress for the Cold. If you do have to be outside, wear multiple layers, insulated boots, thick gloves, a hat, and a scarf to cover any exposed skin.
- Check on Family and Neighbors. This kind of cold can be especially dangerous for elderly people and those without reliable heat. A quick phone call could make a big difference.
- Keep Pets Indoors. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Limit their time outside as much as possible.
- Be Prepared if You Have to Drive. Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, food, water, and a phone charger. Also, keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent freezing.
- Prevent Frozen Pipes. Let faucets drip slightly, open cabinets to keep warm air circulating, and insulate any exposed pipes if possible.
This isn’t just another cold snap—this is a long stretch of dangerously low temperatures that could cause real problems. With over 100 hours of subzero wind chills, everyone in Central Iowa should be preparing now.
