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when will i 35 reopen in iowa

Interstate 35 in Iowa between Ames and Clear Lake is expected to reopen in the early afternoon of Monday, December 29, 2025, as crews finish clearing snow, ice, and disabled vehicles from the roadway.

What is happening on I‑35?

  • All lanes of I‑35 from Ames (US 30, Exit 111) to Clear Lake (US 18, Exit 194) were closed due to blizzard conditions, ice, and multiple crashes that made the highway impassable.
  • The closure was later extended north toward the Minnesota state line as conditions worsened.
  • State agencies emphasize that even where the road reopens, surfaces may remain snow- and ice-covered, so travel will still be hazardous for some time.

When will I‑35 reopen?

  • The Iowa Department of Transportation and the Iowa Department of Public Safety have announced plans to reopen Interstate 35 early in the afternoon on Monday, December 29, 2025 as conditions improve and cleanup progresses.
  • News outlets and state communications consistently describe the timing as “early afternoon,” rather than giving a precise hour, because it depends on how quickly crews can finish removing snow, ice, and stranded vehicles.

How to get the latest updates

  • For the most accurate, real-time status of I‑35 (including exact reopening time, remaining lane closures, and travel speeds), officials direct drivers to the Iowa 511 traveler information system at 511ia.org , the 511 phone line, or the official 511 social media accounts and app.
  • Authorities strongly advise against using rural back roads or non-freeway alternates because they are also hazardous and often lack services or safe shelter options.

Safety tips if you must travel

  • Delay travel until the Iowa 511 system shows I‑35 as open and conditions as improving along your route.
  • If you are already on the road, seek safe shelter in larger communities such as Ames, Clear Lake/Mason City, or Des Moines, where more services and designated shelters may be available.
  • Keep extra warm clothing, food, water, and a charged phone in your vehicle any time you travel during this winter weather pattern.

TL;DR: I‑35 in Iowa (Ames–Clear Lake and up toward Minnesota) is planned to reopen early afternoon on Monday, Dec. 29, 2025 , but you should confirm exact status and timing on Iowa 511 before you leave.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.