Winds that create difficult travel conditions as blizzard conditions develop

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Road conditions across eastern Iowa were partially covered Thursday morning as snow continued to fall and winds picked up.

Iowa DOT is closing at least one crash, closing the eastbound lanes of I-80 west of the West Branch.

“Blowing and drifting snow will be a problem on Iowa roads today and tomorrow,” the Iowa DOT said in a Facebook post. “Travel is not recommended in the Des Moines area on I35/80. Stay safe. Please stay today if possible.

Wind

As winds pick up and temperatures drop, snowstorms can form throughout the day. Wind chills could drop as low as -40 as arctic air continues to flow through the area.

Speeds above 35 mph will bring visibility during blowing snow, which will have the greatest impact on travel.

The worst of the storm hit eastern Iowa Friday, with gusts over 50 mph. Those strong winds will keep blizzard conditions moving well into Saturday morning, with the winds expected to back off Saturday night. Whiteout conditions are possible in rural and open areas.

Snow

The amount of snow in this system doesn’t matter much because the stronger effect comes from the wind blowing the snow around. That makes for heavy snow to measure, but it looks like 4-8 inches will fall.

Cold

Temperatures plummeted as an arctic front moved through the state Thursday morning. Look for sub-zero temperatures Thursday, lasting through Saturday morning. Due to the cold temperature, the snow becomes very light and soft, so that it is easily blown by the wind. Northwest winds will produce dangerous wind chills of -20 to -40. Even in the hottest parts of the day, they feel like negative teenagers or 20s. Frostbite can occur in less than 15 minutes in this cold, so be sure to dress appropriately. Cover exposed skin, especially ears and nose, and try to limit time outdoors if possible.

What can you do?

If you have travel plans now until Saturday morning, you should consider alternative scenarios as it seems difficult and sometimes dangerous. Postpone travel if possible. If you must be on the roads, have a winter weather kit in your car because you may be stuck in the worst of the storm for a while.

With colder weather expected, especially starting Thursday when wind chills will stay below zero for days, make sure you have the right winter clothing to protect yourself from the cold. Hats, gloves, scarves and heavy coats are all needed at this time.

If you must travel, take a winter survival kit with you in your vehicle, which includes:

• Full fuel tank

• Jump cables or jump pack

• Mobile phone charger

• first aid kit

• Flashlight with batteries

• Blankets to warm

• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks

• Shovel, snow broom, snow brush

• Emergency explosions

• To attract sand or cat litter

• Coats, hats, scarves and boots for all travelers

Stay safe and stay up to date on old conditions before you go out if necessary. We’ll be watching over the coming days and providing more updates on air, here on KCRG.com and through the KCRG-TV9 First Alert Weather app.

Copyright 2022 KCRG. all rights reserved.