Sioux City, IA – A powerful blizzard is sweeping across northwest Iowa, southwest Minnesota, and parts of Nebraska and South Dakota, bringing whiteout conditions and dangerously strong winds. Blizzard warnings remain in effect until Wednesday morning, with travel conditions deteriorating rapidly.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, the storm will persist through 6 a.m. CST Wednesday for Osceola, Sioux, Plymouth, and Woodbury counties in Iowa, as well as parts of Minnesota and Nebraska. Additional snowfall between 1 and 3 inches is expected, with wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph. A separate blizzard warning remains in place for Dickinson, O’Brien, Clay, and surrounding counties until noon Wednesday, with up to 4 inches of snow possible.
The storm is creating treacherous travel conditions, with widespread blowing snow significantly reducing visibility. The hazardous conditions are expected to impact the Wednesday morning commute, particularly in cities like Sioux City, Storm Lake, and Worthington. Strong winds may also lead to extensive tree damage.
Officials urge residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. If travel is unavoidable, motorists should carry a winter survival kit and stay with their vehicle if stranded. Road condition updates can be accessed by calling 511.
The storm is expected to weaken by Wednesday afternoon, though strong winds may continue to cause drifting snow in some areas.
