Dubuque, Iowa – Snow is piling up fast across eastern Iowa, and drivers have just hours before 9 a.m. Friday to contend with slick highways, blowing snow and wind gusts reaching 45 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, 4 to 8 inches of snow will blanket Benton, Buchanan, Delaware and Dubuque counties, with the heaviest totals falling along and northwest of a line from New Vienna to Manchester to Vinton. Areas southeast of that line will see a sharp drop-off in totals, but even lighter bands are creating hazardous travel conditions. The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 9 a.m.
Roads, bridges and overpasses along U.S. 20, U.S. 151 and Iowa Highway 150 are turning slick as drifting snow reduces visibility in open areas. Officials warn the Friday morning commute could slow significantly, particularly near Dubuque, Independence, Manchester and Vinton. Sudden bursts of wind may create brief whiteout conditions on rural stretches.
Travel is strongly discouraged. If you must drive, allow extra time, avoid sudden braking and keep emergency supplies in your vehicle. Real-time road conditions are available at 511ia.org or by calling 511.
Snow should taper shortly after midmorning, but drifting may linger as winds stay gusty. Additional advisories could be issued if visibility drops again.
