Today : Feb 05, 2025
Local News
05 February 2025

Cedar Rapids Gears Up For Freezing Rain Hazard

City prepares to face potentially icy road conditions as weather advisory takes effect.

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is bracing itself for freezing rain as preparations ramp up to mitigate the impact on local roadways. With the winter weather advisory set for Wednesday, city officials are taking proactive measures to keep drivers safe.

According to the latest reports by KCRG, freezing rain is anticipated to start affecting Cedar Rapids, and the city is getting ready. On Tuesday, five trucks were already deployed to treat the roads, but the city anticipates ramping up the effort to as many as 40 trucks by Wednesday. Street Superintendent Brian McLeod stressed the importance of this preparation, stating, "Ice is tricky. Give us the opportunity to do our job to make it safe for everybody out there who will be travelling."

The roads are likely to become dangerously slick once the rain begins. McLeod urged residents to stay cautious, especially on bridges and overpasses, where ice tends to accumulate more easily. He pointed out, "You need to stay inside during ice storms because of the ability not to keep control of the vehicles. It’s just so much more dangerous. You cannot see it like you can see snow. "

Travel conditions are expected to worsen, making local travel extremely risky. The city’s preparation efforts focus mainly on busy roadway networks, but motorists should also be aware of less-traveled streets, which may not receive immediate treatment. McLeod’s recommendation is clear: if you can avoid driving during the storm, it’s best to stay off the roads entirely. "If worse come to worst and there is an accident, stay inside your car and call 911," he advised, highlighting the risk of getting struck by other vehicles if drivers exit their cars on icy roads.

The threat of freezing rain isn’t the only worry for Cedar Rapids. The current weather pattern includes mixed precipitation of rain, snow, and ice. A follow-up forecast indicates potential chilly air moving through the area as temperatures drop to the mid-20s overnight. This shift may lead to more wintry weather conditions later this week and over the weekend.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the changing weather patterns. The forecast suggests cooler temperatures will settle in as the weekend approaches, and there’s talk of another chance for wintry mix later on. The First Alert Storm Team is watching these developments closely and providing updates as necessary.

With dangerously slick roads expected and additional winter weather on the horizon, Cedar Rapids becomes yet another community facing the challenges posed by winter storms. Local authorities are determined to keep the roads safe for community members, but as always, personal safety begins with making sound decisions — such as avoiding unnecessary travel during significant weather events like freezing rain.