Blizzard Warning Issued for Mitchell and Howard Counties Through Monday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in La Crosse, WI, has issued a Blizzard Warning for portions of northern Iowa. This follows an initial Winter Weather Advisory as a dangerous winter storm moves through the region. The alert is classified under NWS code BZW.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the following geographic regions:

• Iowa: Mitchell and Howard Counties

What You Should Do

Residents are advised that travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, ensure you have a winter survival kit in your vehicle. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle to remain safe. For the latest road conditions, residents should visit 511ia.org. Slow down and exercise extreme caution if you are on the roads during the advisory period.

Expected Conditions

Weather conditions will transition through two distinct phases:

• Blizzard Conditions: During the warning period, total snow and sleet accumulations of 4 to 6 inches are expected, along with a light glaze of ice. Wind gusts are forecast to reach as high as 50 mph, which will result in widespread visibility reductions to 1/4 mile or less at times.
• Initial Advisory Conditions: Prior to the blizzard phase, mixed precipitation is expected with snow and sleet accumulations up to one inch and ice accumulations of approximately one-tenth of an inch. Wind gusts during this period may reach 35 mph.
• Impacts: Slippery road conditions and blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility, likely impacting the Monday morning commute. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches.

Timeline

• Winter Weather Advisory: Effective from 1:00 AM to 10:00 AM CDT Sunday, March 15.
• Blizzard Warning: Effective from 10:00 AM Sunday, March 15, until 7:00 AM CDT Monday, March 16.