Des Moines, Iowa – Drivers across central and southern Iowa face rapidly deteriorating travel conditions beginning early Sunday afternoon as blizzard winds up to 65 mph whip falling snow into near-whiteout conditions, threatening to shut down major roadways before the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Blizzard Warning takes effect at 1 p.m. Sunday and continues until 7 a.m. Monday across a large portion of the state, including Des Moines, Ames, Marshalltown, Ottumwa, Creston, and Pella. Snow totals of 2 to 5 inches are expected, but the bigger threat comes from intense winds capable of pushing visibility below one-quarter mile.
Road conditions could deteriorate quickly on key corridors including Interstate 35, Interstate 80, and Highway 30, where blowing snow may create sudden whiteout stretches. Officials warn drifting snow may cover lanes even after plows pass.
The storm may begin as rain Sunday morning before shifting to a brief wintry mix with light ice, then turning to all snow by afternoon. That transition could create slick pavement before the strongest winds arrive.
Emergency managers urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel and monitor Iowa 511 road conditions before heading out. If travel is unavoidable, drivers should carry blankets, water, and a charged phone in case they become stranded.
Blizzard conditions may linger into the early Monday commute, and additional advisories could be issued as the storm intensifies across the region overnight.
