Eastern Iowa is grappling with significant disruptions as a powerful snowstorm blankets the region, leading to widespread school closures and challenging travel conditions. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings across multiple counties, with snowfall accumulations reaching substantial levels.
Snowfall Totals and Impact
As of Wednesday afternoon, areas such as North Liberty reported up to 8.5 inches of snow, while Indianola recorded 8 inches. The heavy snowfall has resulted in hazardous driving conditions, prompting authorities to advise residents to stay off the roads unless travel is necessary.
Comprehensive List of School Closures
In response to the severe weather, numerous school districts across Eastern Iowa have announced closures for Wednesday, February 12th. Below is a comprehensive list of affected institutions:
- Ackley Geneva Wellsburg Steamboat Rock Community School District: Closed
- Alburnett Schools: Closed
- Anamosa Schools: Closed
- Andrews Christian Academy: Closed
- Aplington-Parkersburg Schools: Closed
- Belle Plaine Schools: Closed
- Bellevue Community Schools: Closed
- Bennett Community Schools: Closed
- Benton Community Schools: Closed
- Benton County Transportation: No Rural Service
- Capri College – Cedar Rapids: Closed
- Cedar Falls Schools: Closed
- Cedar Rapids Schools: Closed
- Cedar Valley Christian School: Closed
- Cedar Valley Catholic Schools: Closed
- Center Point-Urbana Schools: Closed
- Central City Schools: Closed
- Clear Creek Amana Schools: Closed
- College Community Schools: Closed
- Cuba City Schools: Virtual Learning
- Dike-New Hartford Schools: Closed
- Dubuque Community Schools: Virtual Learning
- Dunkerton Schools: Closed
- East Buchanan Schools: Closed
- East Marshall Schools: Closed
- Edgewood-Colesburg Schools: Closed
- Empowering Excellence Charter School: Virtual Learning
- English Valleys Schools: Closed
- Faith Academy – Iowa City: Closed
- Gladbrook-Reinbeck Schools: Closed (Virtual Learning Day)
- GMG Schools: Closed
- Grundy Center Schools: Closed
- Hawkeye Community College: Closed
- Heritage Christian School: Closed
- Highland Schools: Closed
- Hudson Schools: Closed
- Independence Schools: Closed (All Activities Canceled)
- Iowa City Schools: Closed
- Iowa City – Regina Catholic Education Center: Closed
- Iowa Falls/Alden Schools: Closed
- Janesville Schools: Closed
- Linn-Mar Schools: Closed
- Lisbon Schools: Closed
- Lone Tree Schools: Closed
- Marion Independent Schools: Closed
- Union Community School District: Closed
- Vinton-Shellsburg Schools: Closed
- Wapsie Valley Schools: Closed
- Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District: Closed
- West Liberty Schools: Closed
- Williamsburg Community Schools: Closed
Municipal Responses and Snow Emergencies
In anticipation of the storm, several cities have declared snow emergencies to facilitate efficient snow removal and ensure public safety. For instance, the City of Davenport has enacted a snow emergency effective from 7 a.m. Wednesday through noon Thursday, prohibiting parking on posted snow routes.
Vehicles parked on these routes during the emergency are subject to ticketing and towing. Residents are encouraged to utilize city parking ramps, which are available for free during this period.
Similarly, the City of Muscatine has declared a snow emergency starting at 7 a.m. Wednesday, lasting through 7 a.m. Friday. Residents are required to remove vehicles from designated snow emergency routes to allow for effective snow-clearing operations.
Travel Advisories and Road Conditions
The Iowa Department of Transportation reports that major roadways, including parts of I-380 South, U.S. 218, and I-80, are completely covered in snow, making travel treacherous. As of noon Wednesday, two bans are in effect for several Eastern Iowa counties, including Johnson, Iowa, Washington, Cedar, Jones, Benton, Scott, Muscatine, and Keokuk. The Iowa State Patrol has responded to numerous incidents, including 54 crashes and nearly 180 motorist assists, underscoring the severity of the conditions.
Safety Recommendations
Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution during this severe weather event. If travel is unavoidable, drivers should:
- Reduce speeds and increase following distances.
- Equip vehicles with emergency kits, including blankets, food, water, and a shovel.
- Inform someone of their travel plans and expected arrival times.
- Stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and road conditions.
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