National Weather Service wind advisory in effect across Iowa

CEDAR RAPIDS - The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory across Iowa, including most of Eastern Iowa, that is in effect until 5 p.m. today.

West to northwest winds are expected to increase to 25 to 30 mph in the afternoon, with gusts reaching around 45 mph. Andy Ervin, meteorologist with the Quad Cities National Weather Service, said some wide-open areas could even see 50 mph gusts.

The advisory states the winds should diminish by sunset, which is at about 4:45 p.m.

Ervin said Iowa is the primary state affected, but southwest Minnesota will see high winds as well.

Today's forecast predicts a high of 34 degrees, with temperatures dipping to 23 degrees overnight.

Residents can expect to feel a wind chill outside in the upper teens or lower 20s. Ervin said there is no significant risk for frostbite, but that it's 'just going to feel cold.”

The Cedar Rapids landfill on County Home Road closed at 10 a.m. due to the high winds, said Joe Horaney, communications director with the Linn County Solid Waste Agency. Recycling services are open as usual, and the A Street location is operational, Horaney said.

Normal operating hours resume Friday at 7 a.m.

There are some travel concerns, especially on north to south roadways like Interstate 380, Ervin said.

Winds of this strength will make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles, according to the National Weather Service's advisory released this morning.

Ervin encourages motorists to be aware while driving, and the advisory stated drivers of high profile vehicles 'should use extra caution.”

Andrea Henry, director of communications for the Iowa Department of Transportation, said the department promotes a number of safe driving tips during high wind events that include:

l Slow down.

l Keep both hands on the wheel.

l Scan for objects blowing across the road and into your driving path.

l Keep distance between you and cars in the lanes beside you as gusts can blow the vehicle next to you into your lane.

l Be extra cautious in high-profile vehicle or when pulling a trailer.

l Give your full attention to the task of driving and avoid distractions that could prevent you from seeing obstacles or other vehicles entering into your path.

Residents should also prepare for a possibility of wind damage, particularly regarding loose objects outside or tree branches.

'Preparations should be taken to secure or store loose objects before the winds increase,” the National Weather Service advisory stated.

Friday's forecast includes northwest wind speeds of about 5-10 mph with a high of about 34 degrees, with an overnight temperature of 27 degrees.

l Comments: (319) 368-8536; michaela.ramm@thegazette.com