A late-winter blast brought significant snowfall to parts of northern and central Iowa overnight, with some communities measuring over a foot of accumulation. The heaviest snowfall was reported in Marble Rock, Iowa, which received 15 inches, marking one of the most substantial snow events of the season for the region.
The intense band of snow moved through the state from Thursday night into early Friday morning, creating hazardous travel conditions and prompting cautions from local authorities. While snowfall totals varied dramatically across the state, the impact was particularly noticeable in the north-central counties.
The National Weather Service had been tracking the system, which developed quickly and brought unexpectedly high snowfall rates to a relatively narrow corridor. Allison recorded 13 inches of snow, while Cedar Falls measured 11 inches, according to reports. Further south, Maxwell saw 9 inches, with 8.6 inches falling southwest of Boone and 8 inches near Altoona.
Sharp Snowfall Gradient Across Iowa
The snowfall wasn’t uniform across Iowa. A sharp gradient meant that communities just a county apart experienced vastly different amounts of snow. While some areas were blanketed in over a foot, parts of eastern and southern Iowa reported only a few inches, and some locations received no measurable snowfall at all. Marshalltown reported 7.6 inches, Ankeny received 7.5 inches, and Urbandale measured 7.3 inches. Within the Des Moines metropolitan area, snowfall ranged from 6.9 inches in the southeast to 5.9 inches at the Des Moines International Airport.
Travel Impacts and Ongoing Concerns
Untreated roads and residential streets remained snow-packed early Friday, creating challenging conditions for commuters. Drivers were urged to allow extra travel time and exercise caution, particularly in areas that received the heaviest snowfall. The Iowa Department of Transportation reported crews were working to clear major highways, but secondary roads remained difficult to navigate.
Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing through Friday and into the weekend, which will likely gradual the melting process and prolong slick conditions. This extended period of cold weather could exacerbate travel difficulties and increase the risk of accidents.
Marble Rock Experiences Highest Accumulation
The city of Marble Rock, Iowa, located along the Shell Rock River in Floyd County, bore the brunt of the storm, accumulating a remarkable 15 inches of snow. Marble Rock, with a population of 271 as of the 2020 census, is known for its historical museums and proximity to the Shell Rock River. The significant snowfall is likely to impact local activities and travel within the community.
Snowfall Totals Across Central Iowa
- Marble Rock: 15 inches
- Allison: 13 inches
- Cedar Falls: 11 inches
- Maxwell: 9 inches
- Southwest of Boone: 8.6 inches
- Near Altoona: 8 inches
- Marshalltown: 7.6 inches
- Ankeny: 7.5 inches
- Urbandale: 7.3 inches
- Southeast Des Moines: 6.9 inches
- Des Moines International Airport: 5.9 inches
Local Businesses Prepare for Recovery
In Cedar Falls, businesses like Benton’s Sand & Gravel Inc. Are prepared for the aftermath of the storm. Benton’s Sand & Gravel, located at 905 Center St, offers landscape rocks and pea gravel, and provides free estimates at 319-266-2621. While not directly related to snow removal, businesses like Benton’s often spot increased demand for materials as residents start spring cleanup and landscaping projects following winter storms.
This recent snowfall event underscores the unpredictable nature of Iowa winters. While the system has moved through, residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for continued cold temperatures and potentially hazardous road conditions. The Iowa Department of Transportation will continue to provide updates on road conditions throughout the weekend.
The next update on road conditions and potential winter weather advisories is expected Saturday evening from the National Weather Service. Stay tuned to time.news for continuing coverage.
Have you been affected by the snowfall? Share your experiences and photos in the comments below.
