A major shift is expected in temperatures across the region. Warning Coordination Meteorologist Chad Hahn with the National Weather Service says a warmer-than-average October will come to a screeching halt as a major cooldown starts today. By the weekend, daytime highs in the upper 30s and low 40s will be common, and overnight lows will drop well below freezing. Hahn says the first hard freeze of autumn is likely, meaning the end of the growing season as well. As kids prepare for trick-or-treating, he also reminds everyone to add an extra layer to costumes as well-below average temperatures are likely through Halloween. Hear more from Hahn about the big weather change on today’s In Touch with South Central Iowa.

Rainfall totals from late Wednesday through overnight Thursday:
Lake Red Rock – 1.12″
Knoxville – 1.66″
Pella – 1.33″
Indianola – 1.06″
Tracy – 1.31″
Melcher-Dallas – 1.39″