Hey, Iowa! Tomorrow, Wednesday, March 19th, is going to be a wild one weather-wise. If you haven’t already heard, a High Wind Warning is in effect, and we’re looking at some seriously strong gusts—up to 65 MPH in parts of the state. The winds are going to pick up early, and by afternoon, we’re in for the strongest gusts, so you’ll want to be prepared for what’s coming.
What You Can Expect:
When you wake up tomorrow, you’ll start to feel the wind kicking in, and it’ll only get stronger as the day goes on. The worst of it is expected between 2 and 4 PM, so if you’re planning anything outside, you might want to rethink it. These gusts are strong enough to knock over trees, blow around outdoor furniture, and even cause some power outages, so we’re definitely talking about a day where you’ll need to take extra precautions.
How This Affects You:
For those of you with outdoor plans, it’s probably best to postpone or prepare for some major wind-related issues. If you have outdoor furniture, garden decorations, or anything else that could get tossed around, it’s time to secure it or bring it inside. Trust us, you don’t want your lawn chairs flying around or worse, damaging your property or car.
Travel will also be tricky, especially if you’re behind the wheel of a high-profile vehicle (think trucks, RVs, or buses). These vehicles are especially vulnerable to strong gusts, which could make steering a challenge. If you don’t absolutely have to be out on the roads, it might be a good idea to stay put, especially between 2 and 4 PM when the winds will be at their worst. If you have to drive, be extra cautious, and slow down.
Here’s How to Stay Safe:
- Secure outdoor items: If you’ve got anything outside that could get blown away—like patio furniture, trash cans, or even your kids’ toys—now’s the time to tie it down or move it inside.
- Limit travel: If you can, avoid driving tomorrow afternoon, especially if you’re in a high-profile vehicle. The wind could make it difficult to stay on the road, so consider waiting until later or choosing a different route.
- Stay inside when possible: If you don’t have to go outside, stay indoors, where it’s safe and cozy. Get things done inside and let the wind do its thing.
