AMES, Iowa - Aug. 11, 2010 - Interstate 35 near Ames and several other state highways are closed due to flooding, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT). Many county roads and city streets are also closed in the counties covered by the National Weather Service flood warnings. 

Record flooding is forecast along portions of the South Skunk River from the Ames area to below Colfax. This is a particularly dangerous situation and travelers need to exercise additional caution in these areas. Flooding has already resulted in the closure of U.S. 30 and I-35 near Ames. 

The Iowa DOT is also making preparations to close I-80 between Mitchellville and Colfax on Thursday, Aug. 12, if the situation warrants and river levels rise as forecast. 

Interstate 35 in Story County - The southbound and northbound lanes of I-35 are flooded just south of Ames between Iowa 210 and U.S. 30. 

Due to other area highway closures, a lengthy detour has been established. 
For current updates on state road conditions - 24 hours a day, visit www.511ia.org or call 511 

Beginning July 1, 2010, commercial vehicles in Iowa traveling off the Interstate highways will have higher weight limits. Commercial vehicles with six axles will be allowed from 80,500 to 90,000 pounds, and seven-axle trucks will be allowed up to 96,000 pounds. Click here for a copy of the amended Iowa bridge chart.