Iowa Department of Transportation

DOT urges drivers to use caution as
the first winter weather event hits Iowa

AMES , Iowa – Iowa 's winter road condition report on the Internet at www.511ia.org or by phone at 511 is up and running just in time for our first winter weather event. Forecasts call for winds to steadily increase throughout the day with average speeds around 30 miles per hour and gusts up to 40 miles per hour. The winds are expected to continue through Wednesday, but continually decrease throughout the day. This storm has started as rain throughout the state and is expected to transition into mixed precipitation before moving to all snow. For your safety, watch your local weather forecast, log on to 511ia.org or call 511 prior to heading out on Iowa roadways today.

Dennis Burkheimer, DOT winter operations administrator, says, “It's too early to tell how much of this precipitation will stay on the road. Pavement temperatures are still relatively high, which will help throughout the day today, but the blowing conditions won't help a bit. In addition, be cautious on what appears to be wet pavements and bridges. Pavement temperatures will help the roadways melt falling snow, but as the temperatures near freezing later this evening, the freezing precipitation can quickly turn to ice. Rural areas will also face reduced visibility with the blowing snow throughout the day. The windy conditions will also make clean-up take a little longer at the end of this storm.”

Burkheimer cautions that since we're all a little out of practice driving on slick roads, remember and practice these good winter driving techniques.

• Always wear your seatbelt.

• Turn on your lights --- to see and be seen. Brush the snow off your head lights and tail lights frequently.

• Don't use your cruise control during winter driving conditions.

• Know how your anti-lock brakes work in slippery conditions.

• Be aware that ramps, bridges and overpasses may occasionally freeze first.

• Be aware of "black ice" (roads that look wet, but are actually glazed with ice).

• Drive well below the posted speed limit w hen snow, ice, freezing rain or sleet is on the pavement. The posted speed limits are intended for normal pavement conditions.

News Release