Scott County, IA – Bitter winter cold gripping Iowa today is creating dangerous travel conditions, with frozen roads and life-threatening wind chills prompting officials to urge residents to stay home if possible.
According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau, wind chills have dropped to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of frostbite in as little as 10 minutes. The extreme cold is also contributing to icy and frozen roadways, making driving hazardous across Scott County and much of eastern Iowa, including the Quad Cities metro area.
Officials say avoiding travel is the safest option. For those who must be on the roads, authorities recommend keeping gas tanks full to prevent fuel lines from freezing and dressing in warm layers to protect against rapid heat loss. Drivers are also encouraged to carry blankets, extra clothing, food, water, medications, and jumper cables in case of breakdowns.
“If you become stranded, do not leave your vehicle,” officials advised. Instead, motorists should wait for help and run the vehicle intermittently to stay warm, ensuring the exhaust pipe remains clear.
The Iowa Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau also recommends checking the Iowa 511 app for real-time road conditions before heading out. Even short trips can become dangerous quickly if a vehicle loses traction or stalls in extreme cold.
Local law enforcement and safety officials stress that preparation can make a critical difference during winter emergencies, but the best protection remains staying off the roads until conditions improve.
Residents are encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbors and limit outdoor exposure until temperatures rise.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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