Navigating the Winter Storm in Mahaska County: Essential Safety Information

The view from an Iowa DOT plow truck that is east of Oskaloosa on Highway 92 on January 9th, 2024 at 10:30 am.

Mahaska County, Iowa – Residents of Mahaska County are facing a significant winter storm, with snowfall reports ranging from 9 to 11 inches and still accumulating. The National Weather Service forecasts the snow to gradually ease by the evening, with total accumulations possibly exceeding initial predictions, reaching as much as 14 inches in some areas. This storm, notable for its heavy and wet snow, differs from the lighter, fluffier snowfalls of previous years, presenting unique challenges to the community.

Current Conditions and Predictions As of the morning of January 9th, Oskaloosa in Mahaska County recorded a snowfall of approximately 10.5 inches. Similar trends are observed across central Iowa, with varying snowfall totals. The combination of continued snowfall and wind gusts reaching up to 45 mph is leading to drifting snow, reduced visibility, and hazardous travel conditions.

Mahaska County Emergency Management Coordinator Josh Stevens said, “The NWS predicts snowfall to start tapering off around 6 PM. We’ve exceeded some of the forecasted amounts and snowfall could be as much as an inch per hour at times.”

“The wind is starting to play a factor already and its expected to get worse for several reasons. Drifting is always an issue with this amount of snow, but we are also seeing trees being weighted down by the snow. Factor wind into the equation and we have tree limbs that are taking down smaller lines. Fortunately, this isn’t widespread at the point (10 or less instances). NWS has forecasted 30-40 MPH winds throughout the day.”

Emergency Responses and Challenges Emergency services have been responding to various incidents, primarily related to vehicles stuck on roadways, a fire in the northern part of the county, and reports of tree limbs blocking roads. The heavy, wet nature of the snow is causing additional strain, with tree limbs downing smaller lines due to the weight of the snow and wind factors.

Travel Recommendations Travel is currently advised against unless absolutely necessary. The Iowa Department of Transportation’s website offers real-time updates on road conditions, which are vital for any essential travel. If travel is unavoidable, it is crucial to prepare adequately: ensure a full tank of fuel, stock the vehicle with winter driving essentials like a flashlight, blankets, and a small shovel, and inform someone about your travel plans, including route and expected arrival time.

Stevens recommends visiting the Road Conditions website by clicking HERE before traveling. Other suggestions are:

• Make sure you have a full tank of fuel in the event that you get stranded and have to wait for help.
• Ensure your winter driving kit is stocked with the necessary items (flashlight, water, snacks, blanket, warm clothes, small shovel, or other items to clear around your vehicle’s exhaust. . .)
• Tell a family member or someone else that you plan to travel and give them details such as route and expected arrival time.
• Make sure your cell phone is charged.

Home Safety and Community Care Residents are urged to check on family and friends and pay attention to home safety, especially clearing vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Additionally, clearing snow around fire hydrants is essential to aid the fire department in emergencies.

Looking Ahead While the snowfall is expected to subside, the aftermath of the storm will likely continue to impact the region. The community is advised to stay updated with local news sources and follow guidelines from emergency services and weather authorities.

“Check-in on your family and friends and see how they are doing. Also, take a look at the vents at your home. Some vents such as the furnace vent can get blocked by snow and cause carbon monoxide to build up in your home. Take a quick minute and check on those. Lastly, storms that drop this much snow can cover fire hydrants. If possible, clear around the hydrant so the fire department can locate those quickly if needed,” Stevens shared in conclusion.

For further information and real-time updates, residents can visit the Iowa Department of Transportation website at 511ia.org and stay tuned to Oskaloosa News for additional updates.