Iowa is in the thick of a brutal blizzard today, with heavy snow and fierce winds making it feel more like the middle of winter than the start of spring. The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for much of the state, urging everyone to stay indoors and avoid the roads at all costs. If you’ve already seen snow this year, this storm will top it all—12 inches of snow and gusts reaching 65 MPH are expected before the storm lets up around 10 PM tonight.
What’s Happening: Snow, Wind, and Complete Whiteout Conditions
Iowa is experiencing a storm that’s not just about snow—it’s a full-on blizzard. Starting early this morning, snow began falling across the state, and the intensity will only increase as the day goes on. Up to 12 inches of snow could accumulate, and the winds are only making matters worse. Gusts of up to 65 MPH are creating whiteout conditions that will make driving extremely dangerous. Roads will be covered quickly, and visibility will drop to near zero. This is no time to be on the roads if you don’t have to be.
The strong winds are blowing snow around, creating drifts that will make some roads completely impassable. Even if you’re just running a quick errand, it’s just not worth the risk. The blizzard is expected to continue throughout the day, with heavy snow falling on top of roads that are already slick from earlier snowfall.
Travel Alert: Stay Home if You Can
If you were planning to go out today, now is the time to rethink your plans. The storm is already making travel difficult, and it’s only going to get worse. If you absolutely must drive, take extreme caution. Conditions will be treacherous, and even well-prepared vehicles may struggle to make it through. Be on the lookout for snowdrifts and icy patches, which could appear out of nowhere.
Highways like I-80, I-35, and I-70 are already being impacted by the storm, with snowplows struggling to keep up with the accumulation. If you can avoid driving, that’s the safest move. The last thing anyone needs right now is to get stuck on a highway in these conditions, especially when emergency services may be delayed.
How to Stay Safe While the Storm Rages On
If you’re stuck inside or braving the storm, here are some essential tips to stay safe:
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Limit Outdoor Time: If you must go out, dress in layers and make sure you have a scarf, hat, gloves, and warm boots. Wind chills will make it feel colder than it is, and you could risk frostbite if exposed for too long. Keep your trips short, and always be aware of how your body feels in the cold.
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Stock Up on Essentials: Hopefully, you’ve already stocked up on food, water, and any other supplies you need for the day. If not, make sure you have enough to last through the storm—snacks, batteries, a flashlight, and extra blankets will come in handy if the power goes out. It’s better to have what you need than to be caught unprepared.
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Winterize Your Car: For those still needing to drive, make sure your car is fully stocked with an emergency kit—think blankets, water, snacks, and flashlights. And don’t forget to check your gas tank before heading out! It’s important to keep your phone charged, too, in case of emergencies.
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Look Out for Neighbors: If you have elderly or at-risk neighbors, give them a quick check-in to make sure they have everything they need. Winter storms can hit hardest on vulnerable people, so it’s always a good idea to lend a hand if possible.
When Will This End? What to Expect Later
The worst of the storm is expected to last throughout the day, but conditions should begin to improve by 10 PM tonight. However, don’t expect instant relief. Snow and ice will take time to clear, and roads will remain slick and dangerous overnight. Tomorrow morning’s commute could still be treacherous, so if you have to drive, be sure to take your time.
Stay Safe, Stay Warm, and Stay Inside
This is not your average snowstorm. With 12 inches of snow, winds gusting to 65 MPH, and near-zero visibility, Iowa is in the middle of a true blizzard. The combination of heavy snow and high winds will make travel almost impossible, and even if you’re an experienced driver, these conditions could easily lead to disaster.
So, if you can, stay inside. Wait it out and keep yourself and your family safe. If you must go out, be prepared—dress warmly, keep an emergency kit in your car, and check in with neighbors. Most importantly, remember: this storm is dangerous, and your safety is the top priority.
