Weather
Iowa Winter Weather Awareness Week Oct 25-31: When Snow Turns Dangerous
Des Moines, IA – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Iowa residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Across a state known for open fa
By Owen Prescott · 2026-10-25T17:36:38.369Z
Des Moines, IA – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Iowa residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Across a state known for open farmland and strong winter winds, the answer matters even when little new snow is falling.
According to the National Weather Service NWS , a blizzard occurs when sustained winds or frequent gusts reach at least 35 mph, accompanied by falling or blowing snow that reduces visibility to one quarter mile or less for at least three hours.
Heavy snowfall isn't required. Strong winds can lift existing snow from fields and roads, producing a ground blizzard with dangerous whiteout conditions.
What's the Difference Between a Watch and a Warning? A Winter Storm Watch means significant winter weather is possible, giving residents time to prepare.
A Winter Storm Warning means dangerous winter conditions are expected or already occurring.
A Blizzard Warning indicates blizzard conditions are expected or underway. Travel can become extremely dangerous as visibility drops and snowdrifts block roads.
What Should Iowa Residents Have Ready? Before winter storms arrive, households should prepare emergency supplies, including:
Food and water: At least three days of nonperishable food and one gallon of water per person daily. Warmth: Extra blankets, sleeping bags, insulated clothing and safe backup heating options. Emergency supplies: Flashlights, batteries, medications, first aid kits and charged power banks. Vehicles: A full gas tank, blankets, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a small shovel and emergency supplies. Snow removal: Shovels, ice melt, rock salt and traction materials. Never operate generators, outdoor grills or other fuel burning outdoor equipment indoors or inside garages because of deadly carbon monoxide risks.
Why It Matters Across Iowa From Des Moines and Polk County to Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Waterloo, Sioux City and Council Bluffs, winter storms can create dangerous travel conditions statewide.
Iowa's open agricultural landscape makes blowing and drifting snow a particular concern. Strong winds can sweep across fields, reducing visibility on rural highways and creating deep drifts.
Interstate 80, Interstate 35, Interstate 29 and Interstate 380 can experience hazardous travel during winter storms, especially in exposed areas.
Ground blizzards may develop after snowfall has ended, catching drivers off guard. Extreme cold, stranded vehicles and delayed emergency response can make these conditions life threatening.
As Winter Weather Awareness Week continues through Saturday, October 31, residents are encouraged to review emergency plans, check supplies and monitor official NWS forecasts and Iowa 511 road conditions.
Remember: A blizzard is defined by wind, visibility and duration — not snowfall totals.