Des Moines, IA – Iowa motorists are being warned of flash freeze conditions this Sunday morning as temperatures plunge rapidly following Saturday’s snowfall. According to the National Weather Service, wet and slushy roads from the day before could refreeze within minutes, turning highways like I-80, I-35, and Highway 30 dangerously slick.
A flash freeze occurs when air and surface temperatures fall sharply below freezing, quickly icing over any moisture on the roads. This sudden change can make pavement appear simply wet while actually being coated in black ice — nearly invisible to drivers.
On icy pavement, a car traveling just 35 mph may need up to 600 feet to stop, compared to about 60–100 feet on dry roads. Officials recommend reducing speed, avoiding cruise control, and leaving extra space between vehicles.
“Even when precipitation ends, roads can freeze almost instantly,” the NWS said in a Sunday advisory. “Expect icy spots on bridges, ramps, and shaded stretches through late morning.”
Motorists across Polk, Story, and Dallas Counties should allow extra travel time and check local road conditions before heading out.
