A powerful winter storm continues to create dangerous travel conditions across a large portion of Iowa early Monday. Strong wind gusts between 40 and 50 miles per hour are producing widespread blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility across many areas of the state.
The National Weather Service reports that blizzard conditions are expected to continue through 10 a.m., especially across northern and eastern Iowa. Even though snowfall amounts are relatively light, the strong winds are lifting snow off the ground and creating whiteout conditions in some locations.
Drivers across the region are being urged to avoid travel if possible. Visibility may drop below a quarter mile at times, and blowing snow could quickly make roadways difficult or impossible to navigate. Those who must travel are encouraged to carry a winter survival kit and remain with their vehicle if they become stranded.
Counties included in the warning stretch across a large portion of Iowa, including Emmet, Kossuth, Winnebago, Worth, Palo Alto, Hancock, Cerro Gordo, Pocahontas, Humboldt, Wright, Franklin, Butler, Bremer, Calhoun, Webster, Hamilton, Hardin, Grundy, Black Hawk, Boone, Story, Marshall, Tama, Polk, Jasper, Poweshiek, Warren, Marion, Mahaska, Lucas, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne, Appanoose, and Davis counties.
Cities within the affected area include Mason City, Algona, Estherville, Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Ames, Marshalltown, Fort Dodge, Newton, Pella, Knoxville, Oskaloosa, Ottumwa, Chariton, Centerville, Bloomfield, Des Moines, and many surrounding communities.
Officials say conditions may gradually improve later in the day as winds slowly begin to decrease. However, blowing snow may continue to cause spotty visibility issues, particularly in open rural areas.
Motorists are encouraged to check road conditions before heading out by using the Iowa 511 system online, through the Iowa 511 app, or by dialing 511.
