Eastern Iowa snow likely to stick around for days

As a winter storm system moved north across the state Tuesday, the day started early for an Iowa State Patrol trooper on icy Highway 34 west of Ottumwa: The trooper pulled over an 18-year-old driver who claimed to be running late for the first day at work.

The driver was going 111 mph.

Across Eastern Iowa, public safety officials cautioned that speeds even approaching that level are formulas for disaster as roads became packed with snow or, worse, completely covered.

The Iowa Department of Transportation reported before noon that Interstate 380 south of Cedar Rapids was partially covered with snow and slush and that at least one crash, near Shueyville, was blocking part of the northbound interstate. On Interstate 80, east of Dubuque Street, the eastbound shoulder was blocked in two different locations because of crashes.

The National Weather Service predicted Cedar Rapids would see 2 to 3 inches of snow Tuesday, while Iowa City would see 1 to 2 inches. Other past of Eastern Iowa could see up to 4 inches.

But unlike snows earlier this winter, this one will stick around.

“A storm system will bring light snow to the area Wednesday evening, with snow amounts less than an inch. Slick roads will be possible,” the weather service said. “A stronger winter storm will impact the region Friday night through Saturday. Heavy snow is possible, however it is too early to determine snowfall amounts. Strong north winds will accompany the system on New Year`s Day.”

By Sunday, the high temperates will be about 15 degrees, forecasters say.