Snow and high winds cause poor travel conditions
AMES, Iowa – The Iowa State Patrol is currently not advising travel in parts of eastern and northeast Iowa due to snow-covered roadways and reduced visibility. Towing services are prohibited in the affected areas. Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) road crews are out in force in these areas.
The travel advisory is affecting many roadways in the state, including Interstates
80 and 380.
The Iowa DOT’s road weather information systems (www.dotweatherview.com) are reporting wind gusts of 35 mph and sustained winds in the mid 20s and low 30s. High winds are blowing snow and reducing visibilities to near blizzard conditions in open areas. Air temperatures are in the teens; combined with the wind, temperatures are reaching dangerous levels.
The National Weather Service’s winter storm warning will remain in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday for much of the eastern half of the state. Even as the snow ends, the threat of blowing snow will continue to be problematic on Sunday.
Before you start out on any winter trip
- Check the forecast and road conditions by visiting www.511ia.org.
- Travel only if it is absolutely necessary. Traveling in blizzard conditions is never a good idea.
If you must drive, consider the following
- Travel in the day, don’t travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule.
- Stay on main roads; avoid back road shortcuts.
- If conditions deteriorate, look for a safe place to stay, such as a rest area, truck stop, motel or other nearby travel service.
If you become stranded in blizzard conditions
- Do not panic.
- Pull as far off the roadway as safe and possible.
- Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Disorientation and hypothermia occurs quickly in blowing and drifting snow. You are more likely to be found in your vehicle, and it will provide the best possible shelter. A building may seem close, but be too far to walk to in deep snow.
- If you have a winter survival kit, use supplies conservatively. Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
- Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm, depending on how much fuel you have.
- When the engine is running, open a downwind window slightly for ventilation and periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers, and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for a blanket.
- Take turns sleeping, if there is more than one person in the vehicle. If you are alone, do not sleep while the engine is running.
- Be careful not to waste battery power. Balance electrical energy needs - the use of lights, heat, and radio - with supply.
- If you are stuck during the day, place a bright cloth on your antenna. At night, leave your dome light on, only while the vehicle is running, so work crews or rescuers can see you.
- If you have a cellular phone, call 911 for assistance and provide authorities with as much information about your location. Do not run down the battery!
The Iowa DOT will be monitoring conditions and provide further travel advisories during the winter storm, as warranted.
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