Iowa road conditions slowly improve
Iowa Department of Transportation
AMES, Iowa – Dec. 12, 2010: 11:30 a.m. update – As the strong winds taper off from west to east, the condition of the state-maintained roadways is improving. Travel is still not recommended in north central and northeast Iowa, where the most snow has fallen and high winds persist.
Most roads in the state remain at least partially covered with snow or ice, with reports of some black ice where the snow is blowing at the roadway surface level.
The southbound and northbound lanes of Interstate 29 have reopened. The left lane of I-29 near mile marker 127 at Sloan remains closed due to an overturned semi-tractor trailer. I-29 from the Iowa border to Sioux Falls, S.D. remains closed.
Interstate 80 is open in both directions.
Don’t leave the house without one – a winter survival kit: Frigid temperatures will be felt across the state today as cold high pressure settles in behind the exiting winter storm. If you must travel, be prepared for dangerous wind chills of 20 to 30 degrees below zero. The bitterly cold temperatures can result in frostbite and lead to hypothermia if precautions are not taken. The Iowa DOT is receiving reports of multiple stalled vehicles on roadways. If you become stranded, do not leave your vehicle. Call 911 and utilize the materials in your winter survival kit, as well as additional blankets and warm clothing, until help arrives.
Road closures
- U.S. 52: The road is closed in both directions between Dubuque County Road D-10 (Rickardsville) and Iowa 136 (Luxemburg).
For additional details on Iowa road conditions, visit www.511ia.org or call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide).
Source: Iowa DOT
