Just How Much Snow Could Dubuque See in Statewide Snowstorm?

This week, pretty much the entire state of Iowa will see significant snowfall. The total amount of snow falling will vary from region-to-region. How much snow will Dubuque see? That's what multiple outlets are working to determine. Here's what we know.

I have a meteorologist friend who has told me the same thing, multiple times, over the years: forecasting snowfall is difficult. Even with all the technological advances, forecasting snowfall is difficult due to the large volume of models and constantly changing weather patterns. It's easier to forecast snow accumulation once the snow starts falling, but the paradox there is that most want to know well-in-advance so they can adequately prepare.

I always lean on KWWL and their incredible team of meteorologists whenever severe weather strikes. As it stands right now, the worst of the snow looks to be tracking southwest, in areas like Ottumwa and Iowa City. However, Dubuque will almost surely see some snowfall on Wednesday.

Per KWWL, Wednesday will be a messy day in the Tri-States. Currently, Dubuque is tracking to receive at least two inches of snow.

Our next snow chance arrives with perhaps some greater accumulations. Though many details are still to be worked out, snow likely begins Wednesday morning and lasts through midnight. The greatest accumulations are south of Highway 20 with “plowable snow” (2 inches or more) possible. Temperatures during the day sit in the teens. As a result, light and fluffy snow can be expected. Winds are out of the north at 5-15 mph, which may generate reduced visibilities at times due to the light nature of the snow. Overnight, lows fall into the single digits above and below zero - per KWWL

Moreover, the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts closer to three-to-five inches of accumulation throughout the daytime, with an additional inch of snow falling late Wednesday evening into Thursday. During this time, temperatures will be very cold. NWS predicts Wednesday's high to be around 19°F with a low around 2°F that evening.

KCCI reports that snowfall amounts will range from four-to-eight inches in central and southern Iowa, while predicting two-to-five inches of snow for northern regions.

As always, this is a fluid situation that will continue to evolve as the week goes on. Stay posted on the latest regarding this statewide snowstorm, including its impact on Dubuque, via KWWL and the NWS' website.