Iowa Sees Storm Aftermath with Crashes, Stranded Vehicles

Iowa State Patrol responds to hundreds of calls for service during snowstorm.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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According to the Iowa State Patrol, a major snowstorm in the state led to 277 calls for service, 75 crashes, 64 incidents of property damage, 11 personal injuries, and zero fatalities from 9 a.m. Thursday to 7 a.m. Friday. First responders also assisted 202 stranded motorists, including a close call where a trooper's patrol car was hit by another vehicle.

Why it matters

Severe winter weather can create dangerous driving conditions and lead to a spike in accidents and stranded vehicles, requiring a significant emergency response effort. This incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement and first responders in keeping roads safe during major storms.

The details

The Iowa State Patrol reported responding to a high volume of calls related to the snowstorm, including 75 crashes, 64 incidents of property damage, and 11 personal injuries. Troopers also assisted 202 stranded motorists, including one close call where a trooper's patrol car was crashed into by another vehicle, though the trooper was not injured.

  • From 9 a.m. Thursday to 7 a.m. Friday, the Iowa State Patrol responded to the storm aftermath.

The players

Iowa State Patrol

The law enforcement agency responsible for responding to the incidents caused by the snowstorm in Iowa.

Trooper Goldsberry

An Iowa State Patrol trooper whose patrol car was crashed into by another vehicle, though he was not injured.

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What they’re saying

“Trooper Goldsberry was not injured, per ISP. They stressed driving slowly and helping keep others safe.”

— Iowa State Patrol (wowt.com)

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of driving safely and cautiously during severe winter weather, as well as the critical role first responders play in keeping roads clear and assisting stranded motorists in dangerous conditions.