As blizzard conditions roll into Iowa, host Justin Brady started a Spaces event on X.com (fka as Twitter.) Iowans who joined were Roger Riley of Channel 13 TV HD reporting from Ames. Elias Johnson of Channel 13 TV HD reporting from Urbandale, along with Mario Rossi of Channel 5 from Des Moines, Nelson Bontrager from Bloomfield, and Nancy Mwirotsi from Des Moines.
The consensus across the state is still that travel is not advised, especially as the wind picks up later. Johnson noted this could cause visibility issues. If you do have to go out in the storm, he advises you fill your tank with gas, bring winter gear in case you’re stranded, and be aware of your surroundings as you travel in case you have to call 911 to request help.
Riley noted as of the Space a tow ban wasn’t’ in effect but likely would be added. There are no plans as of 3:00pm to close either interstates I-80 or I-35.
Current updates on Iowa Blizzard
(1/12 @ 2:00pm CT)
Iowa is currently experiencing severe blizzard conditions. The majority of the state is under a blizzard warning, with 6 to 10 inches of snowfall expected, accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 40 mph. This is causing near-whiteout conditions and extremely dangerous travel circumstances. The National Weather Service in Des Moines has warned that blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility, and wind chills as low as 10 to 20 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. These conditions are expected to persist into early Saturday.
With strengthening winds and potentially life-threatening blizzard conditions through Friday afternoon and night, residents are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel.
Original audio can be found here: