Whiteout conditions caused by today’s snowfall and high winds has closed Interstate 35 in both directions between Ames and Clear Lake.
The Iowa Department of Transportation says the gate system at the U.S. 30/I-35N and I-35S/U.S. 18 interchanges have been activated and the gate arms are down. Northbound I-35 travelers must exit at U.S. 30. Traveler services are available at the nearby U.S. 30 exits into Ames. Southbound I-35 travelers must exit at U.S. 18. Traveler services are available at the nearby U.S. 18 exits into Clear Lake and Mason City.
IDOT says all entrance ramps to I-35 at each of the intersecting roadways will be closed by gates. The department says travel is also not advised in several sections of U.S. 69, which runs parallel to the closed section of I-35.
Drivers are urged to check IDOT’s winter driving website for updated road conditions. A winter weather advisory remains in effect for much of north-central and northwest Iowa until midnight. Winds of 25-35 mph gust of 40 mph are expected.
