Quad Cities, IA – A powerful storm system brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and winter weather to Iowa on March 4-5, affecting travel and visibility across the region.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm delivered between one and two inches of rain before transitioning to a rain-snow mix on March 5. Winds gusting between 40 and 50 mph contributed to blowing snow and hazardous driving conditions, particularly in Dubuque and Cedar Rapids, where visibility dropped to a quarter mile.
The system was marked by a central pressure of 980.8 mb recorded at Quad Cities Airport, one of the lowest March readings in over a century. Cedar Rapids saw the highest wind gust at 56 mph, while Manchester recorded nearly two inches of rainfall.
Officials advised residents to exercise caution on the roads, particularly in areas experiencing reduced visibility. Travelers were encouraged to check local advisories for road conditions as lingering impacts from the storm persisted into Thursday.
