Iowa DOT, DPS Plan to Reopen Interstate 35 in Early Monday (12.29) Afternoon

Ames, Iowa – Dec. 29, 2025 – The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) and Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) are planning to reopen Interstate 35 early this afternoon. The agencies had closed I-35 from Ames to Clear Lake, and later to the Minnesota state line, on December 28 as it had become impassable due to winter roadway conditions and almost zero visibility from blowing snow.

As conditions improve, state and local agencies will continue to work through the morning of December 29 to remove disabled vehicles from traffic lanes and to complete snow and ice removal to ensure the roadway is safe for driving.

Iowa DOT and DPS still do not advise travelers to seek alternate routes until later in the day, as these are likely to be hazardous and have very limited access to shelter and traveler services.  Iowa DOT and DPS are also coordinating with officials in the state of Minnesota, who had closed segments of I-35 due to the winter storm.

Drivers should check Iowa 511 before starting a trip for current roadway conditions across the state.  Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or X (find links at https://iowadot.gov/travel-tools/iowa-511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to your mobile device.