DES MOINES, Iowa – As Republican candidates make their final pitch to supporters, Old Man Winter threatens to derail a yearlong campaign as Iowans brave historically cold temperatures to make their voices heard in the 2024 primary.
Iowa caucuses have been held since 1972, but in every election cycle, temperatures have reached at least 16 °F or higher.
That record is expected to be broken on Monday when highs around Des Moines and much of Iowa will struggle to reach zero with wind chill values in negative territory.
Forecast models show wind gusts of more than 20 mph could make the mercury feel closer to -20 °F, which is dangerous for anyone not well protected from the elements.
“When it’s cold, and you’re also talking about things that happen at night, it’s not ‘noon outing’. It will tend to turn some people off. And I think if you’re a more relaxed participant, you might be turned off by the elements,” said Dr. David Richards, an associate professor and chair of politics at Lynchburg University.
Richards has studied politics for decades and expects this round of the Iowa caucuses to be quieter than recent events because of the weather and Democrats choosing not to hold their presidential contests on the same day as Republicans.
Wind gusts over 20 mph can make temperatures feel below zero FOX Weather
“I can’t help but think that -20 degrees will give some people pause. So, it will be a dangerous situation. I think it’s very different from, ‘Oh, it’s raining, and I don’t want to get wet’,” Richards said.
National Weather Service offices across the Hawkeye State have expressed similar concerns in their winter weather warnings.
“Dangerous cold winds can cause frostbite on exposed skin within 10 minutes. Slow down and be careful if you must travel. Avoid outdoor activities if possible. When outside, be sure to wear appropriate clothing, hats and gloves,” the NWS Wind Chill Warning states.
Frozen roads and slippery roads are some of the risks Iowans will have to face to vote in this year’s caucuses. Getty Images
The recent snow storm that dropped 10-15″ of new powder also meant there was plenty of snow on the ground to continue making the roads slick and reducing visibility.
A typical morning low, on any January 15th, is 13 °F in Des Moines, and highs can reach the lower 30s, so the forecast is cold even by Iowa standards.
While the caucus process may last several hours, Richards said the event is usually held at community centers, churches and even private homes, which should provide shelter from the elements if voters don’t encounter problems while traveling.
After Iowa, New Hampshire will host its next primary contest on Jan. 23 and just like the caucuses, voters in the Granite State will likely face their fair share of wintry weather.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
