Severe weather conditions are expected to impact travel on Interstate 35 in Iowa, prompting state officials to consider partial closures of the highway due to anticipated blizzard-like conditions overnight. The Iowa State Patrol announced that while no new snowfall is expected, wind gusts exceeding 50 mph will lift and redistribute existing snow, potentially leading to whiteout conditions and significant snowdrifts.
While specific areas of Interstate 35 that may be affected haven’t been disclosed, the Iowa State Patrol, in conjunction with other agencies, will closely monitor weather developments and decide on any necessary closures as conditions evolve. Authorities have issued a stern warning for residents: stay off the roads when the winds increase.
The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning from 9 p.m. Tuesday until 9 a.m. Wednesday, affecting over three dozen counties across Iowa. This warning encompasses Polk County and stretches from the Minnesota border all the way to the Nebraska border. Wind gusts could reach as high as 60 mph, raising concerns about downed trees and power lines, as well as dangerous travel conditions, particularly for larger vehicles.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and monitor local weather updates as the situation develops, prioritizing safety as the conditions worsen overnight.
