Iowa Road Condition Definitions

Note: These definitions are intended to provide information to the public regarding the status of the roads during or after winter storms. However, please remember that road conditions may change rapidly, and the status of current conditions is not always readily available. It is always important for the public to be prepared to exercise caution while driving during the winter months. Please think ahead.

Normal:This refers to the roadway surface when there has been no precipitation or conditions that would have an adverse effect on pavement friction.

Wet: This condition is the result of precipitation that is not freezing. Reduced traction or visibility may be encountered.

Partially Covered: This is the result of precipitation, including rain, snow, or a mixture of the two, causing roadways to become somewhat covered. The driver may experience periods when the roadway markings may be obscured.

Mostly Covered: This could be the result of continued precipitation over a period of time. This represents an advanced deterioration of the surface. Roadway markings may become difficult to see, and the surface may be slick, snow packed, and have rutted conditions. The roadway may become difficult to navigate.

Completely Covered: The roadway is completely covered with precipitation. Accumulation is to the point that the roadway markings are completely obscured making it difficult to differentiate between the roadway and it's surroundings. These conditions make travel very difficult. This is a hazardous environment.

Travel Not Advised: The roadway has deteriorated to the point it is very dangerous to travel. Emergency vehicles and snow removal equipment may be called off of the roadway due to the conditions. Some weather conditions can be severe enough that roadway treatments, such as salt or sand, will not work. In the event of an emergency, it may be impossible to get emergency vehicles to a scene.

closed ROAD CLOSED: By driving on a road that has been designated as closed you are entering at your own risk. Emergency vehicles and snow removal equipment will most likely not be available to assist you. You are not authorized to travel on a closed roadway.

No Report: Some routes displayed on the map are used to help orient the viewer and will not be included in the road report. Information is gathered continuously with updates included when they have been reported by the officers. What is currently displayed and listed are all road reports that have been collected when last observed. The "No Report" category (displayed in black) does not indicate that normal winter driving is possible, adverse driving conditions may be present.