Iowa – Blizzard conditions are expected to impact northern Iowa beginning Sunday morning and continuing through Monday morning, creating hazardous and potentially impossible travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Blizzard Warning is in effect from 9 a.m. Sunday until 9 a.m. CST Monday for much of northern Iowa. Affected areas include counties such as Emmet, Kossuth, Winnebago, Worth, Hancock, Cerro Gordo, Palo Alto, Humboldt, Wright, Franklin, Butler, and Bremer, along with cities including Mason City, Algona, Forest City, Clear Lake, Waverly, and Estherville.
Forecasters expect snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches, accompanied by a light glaze of ice in some areas. Conditions will worsen as wind gusts exceed 55 mph, producing widespread blowing and drifting snow and sharply reduced visibility.
The National Weather Service warns that whiteout conditions are possible, making travel nearly impossible at times. Roads may quickly become impassable, and the hazardous weather is expected to significantly impact the Monday morning commute. Strong winds could also bring down tree branches, potentially causing isolated disruptions.
Officials urge residents to restrict travel to emergencies only during the warning period. Anyone who must travel should carry a winter survival kit and remain with their vehicle if stranded.
Up-to-date Iowa road conditions are available through the Iowa 511 app, online at 511ia.org, or by dialing 511.
