What is a winter road advisory? What to know about freezing rain over Iowa

Singer Paul Simon’s “Slip Sliding Away” seems like an appropriate song to listen to on this icy morning in central Iowa.

The National Weather Service in Des Moines issued a winter weather advisory for Polk County and Iowa counties west of Des Moines, while the eastern side of the state is under an ice storm warning.

“Travel remains treacherous due to icy roads,” weather service meteorologists said in the release, noting that temperatures will rise to above freezing, with freezing rain expected south of Highway 20. The northern part of the state will likely experience a wintry mix that includes light snow, weather service meteorologists said.

What is an ice storm warning?

An ice storm warning means an ice accumulation of at least a quarter of an inch is expected, according to the National Weather Service. It is one of three types of winter warnings issued by local offices.

A freezing rain advisory means ice accumulation of up to a quarter of an inch is expected. Winter weather advisories are issued for three reasons, one being freezing rain, according to NWS.

“Freezing rain resulting in dangerously icy surfaces today,” is the forecast for Saturday. Expect dangerous journeys as branches and power lines can become ice coated. “Icold tree limbs can break and local power outages can occur.”

More: How to check Iowa road conditions and DOT cameras when winter weather arrives

What is the forecast for ice accumulation in Iowa?

About 0.2 inches of freezing rain is expected in Des Moines, the weather service predicted.

Parts of central to eastern Iowa can expect the biggest accumulation with totals in places like Grinnell, Cedar Rapids and Waterloo ranging from a quarter to nearly half an inch of ice in Ottumwa.

Des Moines, Ames and most other areas can expect about 0.1 to 0.25 inches of ice accumulation.

The weather service warned of “Danger of slipping and falling on icy stairs, sidewalks and driveways.”

What is the weather forecast for Des Moines?

The weather service predicts that temperatures will rise during the day. “Conditions will improve with temperatures warming above freezing today,” the weather service said. “Happy stains can linger, especially on untreated surfaces.”

Saturday night, the weather service is calling for dense fog, followed by foggy but dry conditions Sunday with highs in the upper 30s to mid-40s.

What does Iowa’s weather radar show?

Here’s a look at the current central Iowa radar from the National Weather Service:

Tips for dealing with the icy weather and controlling Iowa road conditions

Travel will become hazardous Friday night and into Saturday, according to the NWS. Branches and power lines can become icy, and winds of up to 20 mph can cause icy tree limbs to snap or power outages.

Motorists should also check road conditions before heading out. The Iowa Department of Transportation reminded Iowans that ice forms fastest on bridges and overpasses, as they are exposed to cold air on all sides.

What are the road conditions in Iowa?

The Iowa State Patrol said it responded to 92 calls for service from 1 p.m. 15 Friday to 6 Saturday. Of these, 34 involved accidents, 30 involved damage to property, and four involved personal injury. None were fatal.

Kate Kealey contributed to this article.

(This story was updated to include new information.)

Susan Stapleton is entertainment editor and restaurant reporter at The Des Moines Register. You can contact her at Facebook, Twitteror Instagramor email her at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on the Des Moines Register: What you need to know about the winter weather advisory in Des Moines