Northwest Iowa — As of 4:00 Thursday afternoon, all the highways in northwest Iowa were marked by the Iowa DOT as impassable due to blowing snow. No travel is advised. Highway 18 was blocked from Sheldon to Sanborn, but at last report, that was clearing up. Highway 18 was blocked between Sanborn and Hartley due to a multiple-car pile-up. We know of injury accidents in that location, as well as one near Ashton on Highway 60 and one on Highway 18 near Boyden earlier.
The winds had been blowing all day, but when snow began to fall, suddenly visibility went down to zero in those areas. Several school districts were caught with students still in school, and a “no travel” advisory having been issued. Some were able to dismiss early. Others had to stay after the normal dismissal time, due to the weather. Many evening school activities were canceled or postponed.
A winter weather advisory is out until 6 PM, with the high wind warning ending at 9:00 tonight. While below zero windchills continue at this hour, tomorrow is supposed to be mostly sunny, and we might hit 30 degrees. This weekend, highs are supposed to be above freezing.
KIWA Staff Photo
