Fresh coating of snow will affect some holiday travel plans
Iowa Department of Transportation
AMES, Iowa – Dec. 22, 2010 – Thursday through Sunday will be a busy time on Iowa roadways as travelers complete last minute shopping and make their way to see family and friends. According to the American Automobile Association, 90 percent of year-end holiday travel is by automobile. AAA is forecasting an increase of 2.4 percent nationally in the number of people taking road trips of 50 miles of more in comparison to those who drove last year. Iowa’s traffic volume is up by 1.2 percent statewide this year, with the highest increase of 2.1 percent on the rural interstate system.
Adding to the complexity of the busy holiday season will be the wintry weather. Snow is expected to fall from west to east across the state Thursday morning into Friday. Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) personnel will be monitoring travel conditions throughout the holiday period and will be out in force clearing roads as conditions warrant.
Travel forecast: While there is still some uncertainty as to where the heaviest band of snow will fall, it appears new snow accumulations of 3-6 inches will be possible by Friday afternoon on a line from the northwest through the central and into the southeast parts of the state. Areas across the southwest may see 2-4 inches, while areas across the northeast may only see 1-2 inches of new snow by noon Friday.
Holiday travel tips
* Put safety first – Don’t risk it. If road conditions are poor, postpone your travel until they improve.
* Curb it-Click it – Give your full attention to the driving task. Don’t text and drive. Buckle up – all passengers, all the time.
* Monitor weather and road conditions – For the latest road conditions, call 511 or visit www.511ia.org
* Slow down – Reduce your speed and turn off the cruise control as soon as roads start to keep slippery.
* Stay with your vehicle – If your vehicle experiences mechanical problems, have a flat tire or run off the road, remain with your vehicle. Call 911 and wait for assistance.
Source: Iowa DOT
