Iowa Caucus Braces for Record-Breaking Cold Spell
The upcoming Iowa Caucus, set to take place on Monday, is causing quite a chill in the presidential race, both figuratively and literally. Meteorologist Chad Myers, reporting live from Iowa, forecasts that this year's caucus could be the coldest on record. With temperatures predicted to plummet to a bone-chilling 35 degrees below zero, candidates are facing not only challenges in campaigning, but also concerns for the safety of caucus goers.
While colder temperatures are not something new to the residents of the Midwest, this extreme cold could pose a significant risk for people venturing out to participate in the caucus. According to Myers, the frigid conditions may dissuade voters, particularly those from rural areas, from making the journey. Farmers and ranchers, already grappling with the task of providing for their animals and ensuring their survival in such arctic conditions, may find it difficult to spare a few hours to attend the caucus. Their pressing responsibilities may overshadow the political event scheduled for Monday.
The National Weather Service has issued potential travel warnings, advising individuals to avoid non-essential trips due to the anticipated hazardous weather conditions. Central parts of Iowa and the state's capital, Des Moines, are expected to experience a bone-chilling windchill of 36 degrees below zero during voting time. Additionally, Myers points out that the blast of cold air sweeping across the country could bring about significant freezes even as far south as Houston, Texas.
In light of this impending cold outbreak, concerns arise regarding voter turnout and the impact it might have on the caucus results. With windchill warnings and snowfall predicted, especially on east-west roads, accessibility to caucus locations might become quite challenging. Iowa, being a part of the Corn Belt where most roads run north, south, east, or west, has an increased risk of experiencing road closures due to drifting snow. Furthermore, another half a foot to a foot of snowfall is projected across the state over the weekend, adding to the existing wintry conditions.
While the extent of the impact on voter turnout remains uncertain, it is undeniable that the exceedingly low temperatures may indeed affect the caucus. Iowans, accustomed to navigating through intense winters, are preparing for an unprecedented bout of cold weather. As the day approaches, anxieties mount, and the candidates and organizers of the caucus are left to wonder how these adverse conditions will ultimately shape the outcome of this significant political event.
As the battle for the Democratic and Republican nominations continues, the Iowa Caucus 2020 will undoubtedly go down in history not only for its pivotal role in the presidential race, but also for its record-breaking cold temperatures.
