Iowa Blizzard - Jan. 25

Conditions across the state of Iowa have deteriorated rapidly throughout the day, causing many roadways across central and western Iowa to be closed due to blowing snow. Roadways that are not 'officially' closed are still advised no travel as plows have been pulled off of the roadways and rescue in the case of an incident will be near impossible. As of 2PM the Iowa DOT and Iowa State Patrol were in the process of closing I-35 from Clear Lake to Ames due to a number of incidents along that stretch of interstate and to avoid any additional wrecks. Blizzard Warnings will continue through 9 PM or Midnight for many of the counties in western and central Iowa due to the continued blowing snow.  Less than an inch of new snow is expected through the remainder of the afternoon, but the 2-5 inches of accumulation that has fell since last night is creating blizzard conditions across these areas.  Winds from the northwest will continue at 25-45 mph with some higher gusts, creating near zero visibility into the nighttime hours. Winds should begin to subside during the overnight and continue to do so through the day tomorrow.  Nonetheless, expect hazardous driving conditions to continue into the afternoon hours tomorrow as road crews will need several hours to clear roadways that have drifted shut. Reports from some counties indicate drifts upwards of three feet high are occurring on state and county roads.

Once again, there are several reports of stranded/disabled vehicles across the state, many of which may not have rescue for several more hours. If you do not have to travel, please do not do so!