A powerful blizzard continues to grip Iowa, leaving significant portions of the state’s interstate system closed and travel severely hampered. As of Monday morning, Interstate 35 remains shut down from U.S. Highway 30 near Ames to the Minnesota border, with no estimated time for reopening. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) is actively working to clear the roadway, but persistent wind gusts are complicating efforts.
The closure of I-35 is part of a broader impact from the blizzard that swept across the state on Sunday, March 15, creating dangerous driving conditions. Although latest snowfall has subsided along the I-35 corridor, the National Weather Service forecasts wind gusts exceeding 30 mph in Mason City until 6 p.m. Monday, continuing to create hazardous visibility. The situation is impacting travel plans for countless Iowans and those passing through the state.
I-80 Reopening Progress and Remaining Closures
Progress is being made on Interstate 80, but significant portions remain closed. Westbound I-80 from West Des Moines to the Nebraska border opened to traffic around 7:30 a.m. Monday, according to the Iowa DOT. However, eastbound I-80 remains closed between Interstate 880 near Minden and the Jordan Creek Parkway exit in West Des Moines. A section of I-80 is also closed between Altoona and Coralville. No timeline has been provided for the full reopening of I-80.
Blizzard Warnings and Road Conditions Across Iowa
Blizzard warnings remain in effect for parts of northeast Iowa until 8 a.m., and extend until 11 a.m. In Iowa City, with some counties along the Mississippi River under a warning until 2 p.m. The Iowa DOT reports that most roads across the state are currently listed as “travel not advised” as of Monday morning.
Outside of the interstates, conditions vary. Some highways in western Iowa are partially covered with snow, while in Des Moines, I-235, I-80/35, and Iowa Highway 5 are listed as partially covered. U.S. Highway 65 between Pleasant Hill and I-80 is completely covered, presenting significant challenges for drivers. The Mile Long Bridge on Iowa Highway 415 over Saylorville Lake, which was closed Sunday due to high winds, has reopened as of Monday morning.
Tow Bans in Effect Across More Than 30 Iowa Counties
Travelers should be aware that more than 30 counties in Iowa have implemented tow bans, meaning roadside assistance will not be available if a vehicle becomes stranded. This measure is in place to protect emergency responders and tow truck operators during the hazardous conditions.
The Iowa DOT is providing updated road conditions and information on closures on its website. Drivers are strongly urged to check the Iowa DOT website before traveling and to postpone unnecessary trips until conditions improve.
As conditions slowly improve, the focus will remain on clearing roadways and ensuring the safety of travelers. The Iowa DOT continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as they become available. The coming hours will be critical in assessing the full extent of the storm’s impact and determining when it will be safe to fully reopen Iowa’s interstates.
Share this information with anyone traveling in Iowa, and let us know in the comments if you are affected by the road closures.
