Does it snow in Iowa? Yes, it does, but the amount of snowfall certainly varies by region. Northcentral Iowa experiences some incredible snowstorms. This is historically the snowiest part of the state. Moreover, this region is home to the single snowiest city in Iowa: Mason City. Charming to visit in any season, Mason City is nothing short of a winter wonderland during the colder months. Here's a glimpse at what life looks like inside the snowiest city in Iowa:
In Mason City, an average of 41 inches of snow falls each winter according to the NOAA National Climatic Data Center. That’s the most snowfall of any Iowa town.
Almost every winter, this town sees a snowstorm with a significant amount of snow.
In 2016, a snowstorm broke a 26-year-old record of 5.3 inches on March 12 of 1991.
Also in 2016, the entire area got heavy late-season snow. Palo Alto and Emmer counties got about 13 inches of snow.
Mason City handles heavy snowfall by alerting residents to snow emergencies. They are required to move their cars so snowplows are able to do a good job of moving the white stuff off of roads.
Many Iowa towns have emergency snow routes where parking isn’t allowed during the winter months if snowplows are out.
The city prepares for winter by stockpiling salt and sand to help keep roads from becoming slippery.
Main routes see action from snowplows first, of course. Even though they may work through the night during heavy snow, Mason City residents may still have to navigate through snowy or icy roads in town.
The city has snow removal guidelines for sidewalks that include walks and ramps that lead to street crosswalks.
Citizens are required to remove snow from sidewalks within 48 hours of accumulation of more than one inch of snow.
Mason City residents also must clear the area around over 1,200 fire hydrants each time it snows to help the fire department.
Like most Iowa towns, Mason City has a fleet of snow removal vehicles.
Iowans are accustomed to driving in snowy and icy conditions. We are also accustomed to the pleasures of staying at home and waiting out the storm.
So, now you'll be prepared the next time you're asked "does it snow in Iowa?" Have you ever visited the snowiest city in Iowa during the wintertime? Where do you live in Iowa? Do you think the snowfall has decreased over the past few years? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
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