Major Pileups on Iowa Interstates Amid Severe Winter Storm Conditions

DES MOINES, Iowa — At least 15 vehicles were involved in multiple crashes on Interstate 35 north of Des Moines on March 5, prompted by blizzard-like conditions and wind gusts exceeding 50 mph. The Iowa State Patrol reported that these incidents led to significant road closures across the state.

Trooper Rodney Larson of the Iowa State Patrol confirmed that one of the largest pileups occurred in the afternoon near Ankeny, closing the northbound lanes of I-35. Earlier in the day, another crash involved numerous vehicles on westbound I-80 near Newton, approximately 35 miles northeast of Des Moines.

The Iowa State Patrol issued a stark warning to motorists: “Vehicles are piling up, and visibility is nearly zero. We urge everyone: DO NOT TRAVEL unless absolutely necessary! YOUR LIFE (and the lives of first responders) are being PUT AT RISK!”

By noon, the agency reported a total of 68 crashes across the state between 9 p.m. on March 4 and noon on March 5, with nine injuries reported but no fatalities. A state trooper’s vehicle was struck in one incident, adding to the urgency of the situation.

“Powerful Winter Storm Lola is bringing strong winds to Iowa this morning, creating hazardous conditions,” said a senior meteorologist for Weather.com. “Those winds, combined with falling and blowing snow, will continue to impact travel with blizzard warnings in effect until 3 p.m. CST.”

Footage shared on social media displayed chaotic scenes on the highways, with images of jackknifed trucks and cars struggling in low visibility as emergency crews attempted to manage the aftermath. The weather conditions led to significant delays in response times for emergency personnel.

Earlier accidents were compounded by rapid changes in weather, including snow accumulation that resulted in completely ice-covered roads. Roads including portions of I-80, Iowa 44, Iowa 141, and U.S. Highways 20, 6, and 59 faced closures, significantly impeding traffic statewide.

As of 11 a.m. CST, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a post on social media emphasizing that the condition of roads had not improved, describing them as “impassable” in many areas due to drifting snow and icy conditions. The advent of severe weather left local authorities urging residents to stay home and avoid travel.

The hazardous conditions evoked memories of a similar pileup in 2018, which involved around 70 vehicles in the same region. Although no fatalities have been reported from the current incidents, the threat remains as the storm continues to impact travel.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.