The air temperature has never climbed into the 70s in Des Moines during December since records have been kept by the National Weather Service.

There’s a good shot that will change Wednesday, but how thermometers will reach that mark will be cause for concern.

The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for all of Central Iowa Wednesday from noon to 11:59 p.m. Meteorologist Roger Vachalek says sustained southwest winds between 25 to 40 miles per hour are in the forecast, with wind gusts as high as 70 possible in the afternoon and evening hours. For comparison, a typical severe thunderstorm warning is issued when winds reach 58 MPH.

Vachalek says travel could be hazardous, especially for high profile vehicles, and any loose objects such as trash cans or barrels can be blown around in those conditions.

The previous record for warmth specific to December 15th in Marion County is 67 for Wednesday set in 1939. The winds will usher in a rapid cooldown, with highs in the low 70s expected Wednesday afternoon and lows around 30 expected by Thursday morning.