Webster County called in its 41 secondary roads employees early Wednesday morning with the road foremen checking roads at 2 a.m.. and the crews coming in at 4 a.m. to begin clearing roads.

“They take a lot of pride in their work, so it’s no surprise when people comment how good the roads in Webster County are,” said Webster County Engineer Jamie Johll.

Three city of Fort Dodge plows began operations at 4 a.m. Wednesday, though Fort Dodge Public Works Director Brett Daniel said his drivers stated they didn’t start to see snow until around 5 a.m. Additional plows and a loader were added by 7 a.m. to maintain hills, bridges, main roads and snow routes.

According to Daniel, the drivers are anticipated to continue clearing roads, alleys, and parking lots for more than 24 hours as they cover approximately 330 miles of city roadways.

-Photo by The Gowrie News
The city of Gowrie brought out the snowplow Wednesday for the first significant snowfall of the winter season. Webster County called in its 41 secondary roads employees early Wednesday morning with the road foremen checking roads at 2 a.m.. and the crews coming in at 4 a.m. to begin clearing roads.

“We do foresee clean up happening (Thursday) as well,” said Daniel. “Our goals during significant snow events is to have all routes run within 24 hours of the end of the storm. This particular situation will make it tough to actually clear the roads of snow due to the lingering cold conditions. Our product is not as effective when temps get as low as they forecast tonight so we will have to use more sand for traction.”

Daniel said city plow drivers are working 12 hour shifts to clean up after Wednesday’s snow event.

“We ask the public to be patient as we navigate this,” said Daniel. “We will clear things, but it may just take some time.”

The Iowa State Patrol reported more than 170 accidents statewide by noon Wednesday.

“As always for those who choose to leave home, use caution and slow down,” said Webster County Sheriff Luke Fleener. “Be sure to anticipate slick roads and give yourself extra distance when stopping. County road crews have been doing a good job today keeping the roadways clear. However, no county snowplows will be out tonight so road conditions could get worse after dark. County crews will be back out first thing Thursday morning. Stay home and stay safe.”