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Iowa DOT to close I-35 from Ames to Minnesota border amid blizzard warning
The Iowa DOT will also close the IA 415/Saylorville Mile Long Bridge at 2 p.m. due to high winds.
Mar. 15, 2026 at 5:55pm
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The Iowa Department of Transportation and Iowa State Patrol have announced that Interstate 35 will be closed in both directions from U.S. 30 at Ames north to the Minnesota border beginning at 3 p.m. Sunday due to potential whiteout conditions. The Iowa DOT will also close the IA 415/Saylorville Mile Long Bridge at 2 p.m. due to high winds.
Why it matters
The closures are in response to a winter storm that is expected to bring strong winds and potential whiteout conditions across northern Iowa, posing a significant threat to public safety on the roads.
The details
The Iowa DOT and State Patrol are closing I-35 and the Saylorville Mile Long Bridge due to the anticipated high winds and poor visibility that could lead to dangerous driving conditions. Roads will remain closed until conditions improve, and crews may need extra time to clear snow, ice, and any stranded vehicles.
- The I-35 closure will begin at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
- The IA 415/Saylorville Mile Long Bridge will close at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
The players
Iowa Department of Transportation
The state agency responsible for maintaining and overseeing Iowa's transportation infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and roadways.
Iowa State Patrol
The law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling and enforcing traffic laws on Iowa's state highways and interstates.
What’s next
Officials have issued a 'Travel Not Advised' alert for all state roadways north of U.S. 30, especially in the northeast quadrant of the state. Drivers are encouraged to stay-in-place and delay travel if possible.
The takeaway
The impending winter storm and resulting road closures highlight the importance of heeding weather warnings and travel advisories to ensure public safety, especially for those who may need to travel long distances across northern Iowa during severe weather events.
