Occasionally, winter weather in Iowa is so severe that it becomes unsafe for snowplow operators to be on the roadway; or the combination of high winds and heavy snowfall makes it impossible for snowplows to achieve any measurable progress in preventing roadways from becoming impassable. In these instances, snowplow trucks are recalled from the roadways and returned to their garage. Operators will resume service just as quickly as weather conditions permit.
When we are not maintaining certain roads during a winter storm, it is unsafe for motorists to attempt to use them. It is highly likely the roads are already or will soon become impassable.
Because of the public safety risk during these emergency situations, the affected roads are deemed closed/impassable and the public is notified as quickly as possible.
How do we notify you when plows are pulled?
Public notification is provided on:
- 511ia.org
- 511 phone service
- News releases
- X posts (formerly Twitter)
In addition, the Iowa State Patrol issues an electronic bulletin to the respective 911 centers, so agencies responding to emergencies are not dispatched on closed/impassable roads.
If a garage(s) has suspended plowing operations, the Iowa DOT will inform the public which maintenance garage(s) has recalled its plows, when it resumes services, and which roads are considered to be closed/impassable in that area.