Iowa DOT News

AMES, Iowa – Feb. 29, 2012 – High winds and light snow are causing travel headaches around Iowa today. Roads in the northwest part of the states are now listed on www.511ia.org as completely covered with snow and slush. Roads in north central and north east Iowa are listed as partially snow and slush covered.

Strong wind of up to 40 mph with gusts of up to 60 mph are expected to continue through much of the afternoon. When combined with the light snow, visibilities my decrease to near zero in some areas. The snow and wind are also creating slick roads in many parts of the state.

Motorists are urged to monitor weather and road conditions before traveling – stay informed and plan ahead – road condition information is available from the resources listed below. 

• Web: Visit the 511 Iowa website at www.511ia.org.
• Phone: When in Iowa call 511, or 800-288-1047 from outside of Iowa.
• Rest areas: Free Wi-Fi service is available at the Iowa DOT interstate rest areas so you can view the www.511ia.org website on your computer from the convenience of your vehicle; or step indoors to view the website and radar images on the easy-to-operate kiosk.
• Dynamic message boards: National Weather Service warnings are posted on the message boards displayed over highways at key locations throughout the state. When necessary, interstate closure information is also made available on these signs.
• Mobile communication device: The www.511ia.org road condition map and text route reports are available for viewing on your mobile communication device. Cell phones and other mobile communication devices should only be used when parked and off the traveled portion of the roadway.
• Twitter: Follow the Iowa DOT on Twitter at http://twitter.com/iowadot and receive winter travel advisories and reports of traffic incidents.
• Email: Receive winter travel advisories and periodic updates directly in your inbox. Visit www.news.iowadot.gov to subscribe.

#