Ames, IA – Drivers traveling through central and north-central Iowa are facing major disruptions Sunday afternoon after Interstate 35 was fully shut down in both directions between Ames and Clear Lake.
According to the Iowa State Patrol and Iowa DOT, I-35 is closed from U.S. 30 (Exit 111) in Ames, Story County, to U.S. 18 (Exit 194) near Clear Lake in Cerro Gordo County. The closure began at approximately 2:40 p.m. Sunday and impacts a long stretch of the interstate frequently used by holiday and weekend travelers.
Officials have not released an estimated reopening time. The Iowa DOT map indicates sections of the roadway are considered impassable, with travel not advised in the affected corridor. Towing is also not recommended in some areas due to road conditions.
The closure affects multiple communities along the I-35 corridor, including Ames, Story City, Jewell, Williams, Belmond, and Clear Lake, and has ripple effects for drivers heading toward Des Moines, Mason City, and the Minnesota border.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area entirely, seek alternate routes, and delay travel if possible. Detours may add significant travel time, especially on secondary roads that are also experiencing difficult conditions.
The Iowa DOT recommends checking www.511ia.org for live updates, road conditions, and detour information before heading out. Conditions can change rapidly, and additional closures are possible if weather or road conditions worsen.
Drivers who must travel are reminded to slow down, keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, and monitor official updates from the Iowa DOT and Iowa State Patrol.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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