Mon Dec 29 12:30:00 UTC 2025: NEWS ARTICLE:

I-35 Shut Down from Ames to Minnesota Border as Iowa Battles Blizzard; Fatal Crash Reported

DES MOINES, IA – The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) has closed Interstate 35 in both directions from Ames to the Minnesota border effective 6:45 p.m. Sunday due to treacherous blizzard conditions across the state. The DOT and Iowa State Patrol (ISP) are strongly advising against travel on alternative routes, citing equally dangerous conditions on secondary highways.

The decision to shut down the major artery comes as a powerful winter storm continues to batter Iowa, bringing high winds, blowing snow, and near-zero visibility. A blizzard warning is in effect until 9 a.m. Monday for several counties in northern Iowa, including Emmet, Kossuth, Winnebago, Worth, Palo Alto, Hancock, Cerro Gordo, Humboldt, Wright, Franklin, Butler, Bremer, Pocahontas, Webster, Hamilton, Hardin, Grundy and Black Hawk.

“People, again, are just driving too fast for the conditions and not heeding warnings to slow down and actually stay home today,” said Craig Bargfrede, Winter Operations Administrator for the Iowa DOT.

The ISP reported responding to 31 crashes between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. Sunday. While 22 resulted in property damage, eight included injuries, and one was fatal. A massive 14-vehicle pileup on I-35 was attributed to the extremely low visibility caused by blowing snow. The ISP also assisted 127 stranded motorists during the same timeframe.

With motels in Iowa Falls reportedly full, the Iowa Falls Fire Station on South River Street is being utilized as an emergency shelter for travelers stranded by the storm.

Bargfrede stated that 630 crews are working to clear roads, but the extreme cold is limiting the effectiveness of traditional methods like salting. He urged anyone who must travel to reduce speed and increase following distance, reiterating the recommendation to stay home and monitor road conditions. A tow ban is also in effect for Hamilton, Franklin, and Cerro Gordo counties.

The public is urged to stay informed by monitoring weather updates and road conditions before attempting to travel.

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