Iowa is grappling with a ferocious blizzard on March 5, 2025, unleashing hazardous weather across the state.
Rain, snow, and fierce winds have triggered widespread disruptions, from road closures to massive power outages.
With Interstate 80 shut down, over 30,000 Iowans without electricity, and schools canceling classes, this storm is paralyzing daily life.
Here’s everything you need to know about the chaos unfolding in Des Moines and beyond.
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Iowa Road Conditions : Interstate 80 Closure Disrupts Travel
I-80 West of Des Moines Becomes Impassable
A major stretch of Interstate 80 west of Des Moines closed at 6 a.m. due to treacherous road conditions and multiple crashes.
The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that the section from the west mixmaster to near Avoca is blocked off.
Crews are scrambling to clear stalled vehicles and wreckage.
Sgt. Alex Dinkla of the Iowa State Patrol told KCCI, “This part of I-80 has been a disaster all night.”
The closure has stranded travelers and halted trucking operations, with road conditions labeled “travel not advised” across western and northern Iowa.
Statewide Road Conditions Deteriorate
Beyond I-80, Interstate 35 and other highways near Des Moines are also in dire shape.
The Iowa DOT’s latest map shows most major roads in western and northern Iowa as completely covered or impassable.
South of the metro, highways are slick with ice and snow, making travel a risky endeavor.
Power Outages Hit Over 30,000 Iowans
MidAmerican Energy Reports Massive Outages
As of 6:40 a.m., MidAmerican Energy reported over 20,000 customers in the dark.
Des Moines alone saw 11,736 homes and businesses lose power, while Council Bluffs and Fort Dodge reported 2,795 and 5,697 outages, respectively.
Winds gusting up to 65 mph are toppling power lines and trees weighed down by snow.
Alliant Energy and Cooperatives Struggle
Alliant Energy noted 5,300 outages by 6:45 a.m., with Jasper County (1,014 customers) and Story County (871 customers) hit hardest.
The Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives added nearly 5,000 more, including 638 in Story County.
Blizzard Warning Blankets Iowa
Central Iowa Under Siege
A blizzard warning is active for most of Iowa, including Polk, Dallas, Story, Boone, Madison, and Warren counties.
It began at midnight and lasts until 3 p.m. Wednesday, with western and northern areas under alert since 9 p.m. Tuesday.
Expect wind gusts of 50-60 mph and 2-4 inches of snow, with heavier totals west of I-35.
Travel Nightmares Unfold
The National Weather Service warns of near-zero visibility and “nearly impassable” roads Wednesday morning.
Blowing snow and icy surfaces will make commuting dangerous, especially during peak hours.
Travelers heading to the Iowa girls state basketball tournament in Des Moines face added challenges as the storm disrupts plans.
School Closures and Virtual Learning
Des Moines Schools Cancel Classes
With the blizzard looming, Des Moines Public Schools and surrounding districts like Ankeny, Johnston, and Waukee canceled Wednesday classes by 7 p.m. Tuesday.
Other districts, such as Bedford and Davis County, shifted to virtual learning to keep students safe.
Impact on Families and Events
The closures come as thousands converge on Des Moines for the state basketball tournament, a rare snow-marred event in recent years.
Parents and organizers are adapting to the storm’s fallout, with safety taking top priority.
Safety Tips for Iowa Residents
Enable Severe Weather Alerts
The U.S. Homeland Security Department urges Iowans to activate “Government Alerts” or “Emergency Alert Messages” on their phones.
Beware of Snowplows
Snowplows will be out in force Wednesday, moving slowly and creating “snow clouds” that reduce visibility.
Keep a safe distance, pass only when clear, and avoid driving beside them. Slogans like “Ice and Snow … Take It Slow” and “Don’t crowd the plow” are key reminders for drivers.
Rainfall and Snowfall Updates
Heavy Rain Hits Tuesday Night
Central Iowa saw significant rainfall Tuesday evening, with Grimes reporting 1.52 inches and Altoona logging 1.39 inches by 8 p.m.
This soaking transitioned to snow overnight, complicating road treatment efforts by the Iowa DOT.
Snow and Winds Persist Wednesday
Snowfall will ease from west to east Wednesday morning, ending by afternoon in Des Moines around 3 p.m.
Winds gusting up to 65 mph will drive blowing snow, creating whiteout conditions through midday.
New snow totals in Des Moines should hit 2-4 inches.
Des Moines Airport Chaos
Flight Delays and Cancellations
As of 7 a.m., Des Moines International Airport reported 20 flight disruptions—11 delays and nine cancellations.
Most affected flights were early departures, with American Airlines bearing the brunt (nine total).
Delays range from one to three hours, so check your flight status before heading out.
Another Storm Looms Thursday
More Snow by Friday
A second winter storm arrives late Thursday, bringing moderate snow into Friday.
Fort Dodge could see up to 6 inches, while Des Moines may get 2 inches. Winds won’t be as fierce, but travel impacts are still expected.
The National Weather Service cautions that snowfall predictions remain fluid—stay tuned for updates.
Des Moines Register Delivery Delays
Blizzard Halts Newspaper Trucks
The Des Moines Register warns of delivery delays Wednesday due to impassable roads overnight.
Western and northern Iowa subscribers may not see papers until Thursday, while metro routes face late or next-day delivery.
How to Stay Safe and Informed
Check Road Conditions
Before driving Wednesday, consult the Iowa DOT’s live road condition map.
Ice, snow, and wind will make morning commutes perilous, with parking restrictions likely in many cities.
Prepare for Outages
With power outages widespread, stock up on essentials like blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food.
Report outages to MidAmerican, Alliant, or your local cooperative and monitor restoration efforts online.
Iowa Braces for Blizzard Aftermath
The March 5, 2025, blizzard is testing Iowa’s resilience, from closed highways to darkened homes.
As snow tapers off Wednesday afternoon, attention shifts to recovery—and the next storm on Thursday’s horizon.
Stay safe and brace for a wild weather week in the Hawkeye State.
Stay updated with CTC News.
