Winter storm underway, blizzard warning for Thursday afternoon, Friday
A significant winter storm in starting in the area late Wednesday afternoon and will be spreading across the state on Thursday. Iowa State Trooper Kyle Kluender of Humboldt and Humboldt County Sheriff Dean Kruger have advised not to travel unless it is an emergency. "We want everyone to driver with extreme caution and to be safe on the eve of this holiday season," Kruger said.
A winter storm warning is now in effect until noon on Thursday, Nov. 22. A blizzard warning is in effect from noon Thursday until 6 a.m. on Saturday.
Snow is beginning this afternoon and will continue intermittently through early Thursday. Winds will also increase Thursday and continue into Friday night when blizzard conditions are expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches, with locally higher amounts possible.
Wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph or greater may occur late Thursday through Friday. Extreme cold and wind chills of 20 to 40 below will be common.
Plan on periods of blizzard conditions along with very poor road conditions at times. Areas of blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions may impact the morning and definitely the evening commute. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 40 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
It needs to be emphasized that the combination of blowing snow, blizzard conditions, and extreme cold will be very hazardous and possibly life threatening if stranded outside.
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
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.
For the latest travel conditions, check the Iowa 511 app, www.511ia.org, or dial 511.http://www.weather.gov
