The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for Buena Vista and surrounding counties later today (Fri).
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect until 3pm today (Fri). The Blizzard Warning begins at 3pm Friday lasting through Saturday night. Winds could be gusting up to 40 miles per hour by Friday afternoon and Friday night.
(Friday 6am Update) Area highways are only partially covered with snow early this (Fri) morning, but road conditions are expected to get worse as the day progresses. According to the Iowa DOT 511 website, in northwest Iowa only a small stretch of Highway 3 west of LeMars is completely covered with snow as of 6am. Towing is not recommended in Pocahontas and Calhoun Counties. Basically all highways are completely snow covered in other sections of the state, and towing is not recommended.
Keep up to date on statewide road conditions by clicking here.
Travel could become very difficult in the area as the day goes on, as patchy blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. If you must travel, the National Weather Service advises you to keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle. Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle. Avoid outside activities if possible. When outside, be sure to wear appropriate clothing, gloves, and a hat. The latest state road conditions can be obtained by calling 5-1-1.
A Wind Chill Warning has also been issued from 6pm today (Fri) evening until noon this coming Tuesday. The wind chill could get as low as 45 degrees below zero. The dangerously cold wind chills cause frostbite in as little as ten minutes. The HIGH temperature is expected to be in the single digits today (Fri) and sub-zero Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Overnight low temps Saturday night, Sunday night, and Monday night are expected to be between 15 below and 20 below.
