Ottumwa, Iowa – Drivers across southern Iowa could face near-zero visibility by 1 p.m. Sunday as wind gusts up to 65 mph whip snow across highways, creating blizzard conditions that could make travel nearly impossible into early Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Blizzard Warning takes effect at 1 p.m. Sunday and remains in place until 7 a.m. Monday across south central, southeast, and southwest Iowa. Snow totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected, but powerful winds between 55 and 65 mph will produce widespread blowing and drifting snow that can quickly cover roads and reduce visibility.
Rain will begin Sunday morning before transitioning to a brief wintry mix that may leave a light glaze of ice on roads. Snow then takes over during the afternoon as temperatures fall and winds strengthen.
Communities including Ottumwa, Creston, Chariton, Osceola, Centerville, Albia, Bloomfield, and Mount Ayr sit inside the warning area. Major travel routes such as U.S. 34, U.S. 65, and Highway 5 may experience drifting snow across open stretches of roadway.
Emergency officials urge residents to limit travel once conditions worsen Sunday afternoon. Anyone who must drive should carry blankets, food, water, and a charged phone in case of delays or road closures.
Hazardous travel may continue into the Monday morning commute as strong winds keep blowing snow across roads. Additional advisories could follow as the storm continues moving across Iowa.
