The latest update from the National Climate Prediction Center shows the potential for a slightly cooler and wetter than average winter season ahead. The branch of the National Weather Service shows that for most of Iowa, the probability of those conditions has increased slightly since the first seasonal outlook was issued in late October.

The precipitation news is welcome as a four-to-six month drought has settled into south central Iowa, according to State Climatologist Justin Glisan. The climate outlooks provide general guidance for upcoming weeks and months, and is not meant for specific daily forecasts.

In the shorter term, near-to-above normal daytime temperatures are expected locally, in the mid-to-upper 40s most days with the occasional 50+ degree days possible. A few slight chances for precipitation exist for Thanksgiving day and again this weekend, with better chances for sustained precipitation by the middle of next week, according to the National Weather Service.