Until this morning, it was all speculation and educated guessing. Now, forecasters with the National Weather Service are absolutely certain: a “significant winter storm” will impact Jasper County and Central Iowa beginning Thursday morning.

Snowfall totals could be 5 to 10 inches in most areas, with up to 12 inches possible in isolated locations. As a results, a Winter Storm Watch has already been issued two days in advance of the storm.

“A developing low pressure will push northeast toward Iowa Thursday and Thursday night,” the current forecast from the Johnston NWS office states. “Widespread significant snowfall is expected ... Thursday into Friday.”