Iowa DOT News

AMES, Iowa – Feb. 18, 2008 – 3 p.m. - According to the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), high winds and blowing snow are once again causing hazardous driving conditions and limiting visibility.

Iowa 13 from Manchester in Delaware County north to the Iowa 3 junction at the Delaware/Clayton county line is being temporarily closed by local law enforcement due to blowing snow and low visibility, and will remain closed until visibility improves.

The Iowa State Patrol is not recommending travel in most of northeast Iowa and portions of north central Iowa. This includes parts of Interstates 35 and 80.

If en route, travelers in the area should seek a safe place to wait out the storm. If you become stranded:

1. Do not panic.
2. Pull as far off the roadway as safe and possible.
3. Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Disorientation and hypothermia can occur. You are more likely to be found in your vehicle, and it will provide the best possible shelter. A building may seem close, but be too far to walk to in deep snow.
4. If you have a winter survival kit, use supplies conservatively. Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
5. Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm, depending on how much fuel you have.
6. When the engine is running, open a downwind window slightly for ventilation and periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
7. Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers, and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for a blanket.
8. Take turns sleeping, if there is more than one person in the vehicle. If you are alone, do not sleep while the engine is running.
9. Be careful not to waste battery power. Balance electrical energy needs - the use of lights, heat, and radio - with supply.
10. At night, leave your dome light on, only while the vehicle is running, so work crews or rescuers can see you.
11. If you have a cellular phone, call 911 for assistance and provide authorities with as much information about your location. Do not run down the battery!

The Iowa DOT will be monitoring conditions and provide further travel advisories, as warranted. Iowa road condition information is available on the Internet by visiting 511ia.org or via the phone by dialing 511.