I-35 Closure Ending as Crews Finish Cleanup Across Northern Iowa

The weather outside has indeed been frightful! As a result of a severe winter storm on Sunday, December 28, Interstate 35 was shut down from Ames, all the way to the Minnesota border north.

In Minnesota, it was also shut down for a long stretch due to the same massive winter storm bringing blizzard conditions to our region.

With many Iowans traveling for Christmas, bad weather adds danger to inconvenience.

When the DOT Says I-35 Will Reopen in Iowa

Interstate 35 is expected to reopen early this afternoon after being shut down for more than a day due to dangerous winter weather across northern Iowa.

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The Iowa Department of Transportation and Iowa Department of Public Safety closed I-35 on December 28 from Ames to Clear Lake, later extending the closure to the Minnesota state line, as blowing snow, near-zero visibility, and impassable conditions made travel unsafe.

READ MORE: See How the Roads in Iowa Are Doing All Winter

Crews are continuing cleanup efforts throughout the morning on December 29, focusing on removing disabled vehicles and clearing remaining snow and ice to make sure the roadway is safe before traffic resumes.

When I-35 Reopens, It Doesn't Mean the Road is Fully Cleared

Even as I-35 reopens, Iowa DOT and DPS are urging drivers to avoid alternate routes until later in the day. Many secondary roads remain hazardous and offer limited access to services or shelter.

Officials are also coordinating with Minnesota authorities, where portions of I-35 were closed during the same storm.

Check the Road Conditions Before Traveling

Before traveling, drivers are strongly encouraged to check current road conditions using Iowa 511.

Travelers can visit 511ia.org, call 511 within Iowa or 800-288-1047 nationwide, use the Iowa 511 app, or follow Iowa 511 on social media for real-time updates.

READ MORE: Where Iowans Vacationed in 2025

As always during Iowa winter weather, officials remind drivers to slow down, allow extra travel time, and avoid unnecessary trips until conditions fully improve.

Hungry? When conditions improve, here's where to eat in Eastern Iowa!