Blowing snow through Friday can create hazardous driving conditions #iatraffic
AMES, Iowa – Jan. 16, 2014 – Windy conditions with periodic gusts exceeding 30 mph will continue through Friday. Even small snow amounts of snowfall coupled with high winds can cause hazardous driving conditions. The Iowa Department of Transportation is working to clear roads, but blowing snow can cause roadways to quickly become re-covered after trucks pass through. Visibility can also be greatly reduced due to blowing snow.
Iowa DOT reminds travelers that trips during severe winter weather can take three or four times longer than normal. 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 Iowa 511 website at http://511ia.org/. Tow ban information can be found on the full-featured version of the website.
- 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 511 website (http://511ia.org/) 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 dynamic message boards displayed above or along highways at key locations throughout the state. When necessary, interstate closure information is also made available on these signs.
- 511 on the go: Download the Iowa 511 mobile app for Apple and Android devices. Search for “Iowa 511” in your device’s app store. Mobile devices should only be used when parked and off the traveled portion of the roadway.
- E-mail: Receive winter road closure and other travel advisories directly in your inbox. Visit http://511ia.org/ to subscribe to “My Reports,” customizable to the route(s) you plan to travel or highway you use for your daily commute.
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For media access to an Iowa DOT Highway Division spokesperson during this winter event, call 515-233-7960.