News Release

Iowa DOT warns of snow and cold on the way for tonight

AMES , Iowa – According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, an approaching snow storm set to hit this evening and overnight may deposit an additional four inches of snow in some parts of the state.  Dennis Burkheimer, DOT winter operations administrator, says the DOT is forecasting three to four inches in the southern half of Iowa , up to two inches in central Iowa and lesser amounts to the north. Burkheimer says the good news is that winds are forecast to be light, so blowing snow will be less of a factor and the timing of the storm should not affect this afternoon's commute home, but the trip in to work in the morning will require extra caution.

Burkheimer says the recent cold temperatures have made clearing the roads of snow and ice more difficult. Chemicals used to treat ice on the roadways become less effective as the mercury plummets. Burkheimer says, “It takes eight times as much salt to melt a pound of ice at 20 degrees Fahrenheit as it does at 30 degrees and, as the temperature drops, so does the effectiveness of most deicing chemicals used by the DOT.  Salt becomes totally ineffective for melting snow and ice at approximately -6 degrees F. Because many of the tools used on the roadways are less effective at our current temperatures, it may take longer for DOT crews to clear the roads than at warmer temperatures.”

The snow and ice we've had in the last few weeks, coupled with the additional amount expected tonight and the sub-zero temperatures, will make travel difficult overnight and through tomorrow. Burkheimer emphasizes the need for drivers to use caution, especially when driving in areas where the roadway appears to be wet. He said, “It's very likely that the wet coating on the roadway is actually ice. This ‘black ice' can be dangerous and can mislead some less experienced drivers.”

Motorists who must travel overnight Wednesday or early Thursday are urged to watch weather forecasts, reduce speeds, discontinue use of cruise control, wear seat belts and allow extra time to get to their destination.

  

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