The blizzard that swept through Iowa on Friday has sent shockwaves through the 2024 Republican presidential field, causing candidates to scale back their campaign schedules and raising concerns about voter turnout amid unprecedented freezing temperatures.

Former President Donald Trump, a key contender, made significant changes to his Iowa campaign plans. He decided to cancel three out of the four rallies he had originally scheduled and instead opted for telephone events.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who are believed to be vying for a second-place finish, also had to adjust their campaign plans due to the extreme weather conditions. Both canceled what was expected to be a busy day of campaigning on Friday.

With an Arctic blast hitting the region, Iowa is bracing for its coldest caucuses ever - with subzero temperatures and wind chills as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Monday is predicted to be the coldest January day in at least five years.

The freezing conditions have left candidates and their staff wondering about the turnout for the caucuses and how their campaigns can adapt to the circumstances. The weather has created uncertainty, as it is unclear if campaign events can be held at all and if voters will brave the bitter cold to attend them.

Nikki Haley, in a tele-town hall, acknowledged the extreme cold and urged voters to dress in layers on Monday night in case they have to wait outside. She emphasized the importance of caucusing but acknowledged the challenges posed by the weather.

DeSantis, speaking alongside Texas Rep. Chip Roy at his campaign headquarters, expressed uncertainty about the impact of the subzero temperatures on the turnout. He acknowledged that the weather could be a wildcard for the caucuses but emphasized the importance of his campaign organization in light of such unexpected circumstances.

Despite the challenges, candidates are pushing forward with their campaigns. Haley's team announced events in Cedar Falls, Iowa City, and Davenport on Saturday. DeSantis has events scheduled in Atlantic, West Des Moines, and Davenport, though he canceled a stop in Waterloo.

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson had to cancel a meet-and-greet due to the closure of the planned venue, but he attended the Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo in Des Moines instead.

Trump's campaign maintained a Sunday event in Indianola but canceled Saturday events in Sioux City and Atlantic, as well as Sunday's event in Cherokee. The weather conditions have limited the options for campaign activities, with Sioux City even declaring a snow emergency that affected downtown parking.

Campaign aides for Trump expressed confidence that the low turnout caused by the weather would not significantly impact their candidate's position, citing the large pool of supporters and the enthusiasm demonstrated by attendees at previous rallies.

Despite the challenges posed by the blizzard, candidates are determined to make their case to the Iowa voters. They remain hopeful that their messages will resonate even in the face of record-breaking cold and snowfall. The final impact on the 2024 Republican presidential field will be determined when Iowans brave the elements and head to the caucuses on Monday night.