Winter Storm — O'brien, Iowa

2013-04-09 to 2013-04-11 · O'brien, Iowa

Event narrative

An extended period of precipitation began with freezing rain quickly producing heavy ice accumulations, ranging up to between a quarter and half inch. The precipitation then changed to sleet and then snow, with sleet and snow accumulations reaching 3 to 6 inches. Many branches, limbs, whole trees, and power lines were downed by the weight of ice and accompanying wind, especially over the northern part of the county. Both urban areas and rural electric cooperatives suffered major power line damage. Trees and tree debris blocked many roads, and damaged several vehicles and homes. Major power outages were reported, affecting thousands of people. The winter precipitation made travel impossible in many areas, resulting in schools and businesses being forced to close.

Wider weather episode

Heavy precipitation with rapid cooling produced a combination of freezing rain, sleet, and snow over much of northwest Iowa from the evening hours of April 9th, to the morning of April 11th. Moderate to heavy ice accumulations were reported mostly near the northern border of the state. This was followed by light to moderate snow and sleet accumulations. The ice accumulations, greater than a half inch in some areas, caused major tree and power line damage in the ice storm area. Fallen branches and limbs were numerous, trees were destroyed, roads were blocked, and some vehicles and homes suffered damages from the falling trees, limbs, and branches. There were also major power outages because of the power line and power pole damage. Strong winds with and following the storm, not strong enough to cause significant damage under dry conditions, contributed greatly to the tree and power line damage. The snow and sleet accumulations made travel difficult, especially in areas where downed trees and power lines were already causing road blockages. Both ice and snow accumulations were less, and caused fewer problems, further south, including the Sioux City to Storm Lake areas.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 448270. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.