In case there was any doubt…winter has officially arrived in Iowa. This weekend promises to be the chilliest of the season, and possibly the century. Thanks to the upcoming polar vortex, temperatures will drop so low that meteorologists are advising one thing: do not go outside. Here’s more on how the area of Des Moines and most other parts of the state will be in for a terribly frigid weekend.

Iowa may be in for its chilliest weekend since 1901. Starting Saturday night, the low will drop down to 12 degrees F.
Alan Light/flickr
With blustering winds exceeding 20 MPH, the windchill will actually feel more like -25 degrees.
WindRanch/flickr
The National Weather Service has predicted that the windchill in the Des Moines area will drop to more than -30 degrees F by Sunday morning.
Jason Mrachina/flickr

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Residents of northern Iowa should be particularly cautious. Lows in that area could reach -25 degrees with a windchill of 40 below. Northern Iowa is also expected to experience 4 to 6 inches of snow.
Phil Roeder/flickr
So what causes a polar vortex to deliver such extreme temperatures? This phenomenon begins at the Earth’s poles, where low pressure and cold air accumulate. During the winter, the vortex expands and is pulled into North America.
NASA Goddard Space Flight/flickr
Officials have advised Iowans to avoid being outside unless it’s absolutely necessary. Startling low temperatures like these are grounds for hypothermia and frostbite.
Tony Webster/flickr
If you must be outside, be sure to cover all exposed skin and return back inside as quickly as possible. Otherwise, take advantage of these temperatures and stay cozy indoors.
Jason Mrachina/flickr

Be sure to stay alert to local weather advisories and stay as safe as possible. What do you think about this incredible weather forecast? Feel free to share your thoughts with us!

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