Iowa State Patrol officials are pleading with drivers to stay off the roads as they respond to serious crashes on Interstate 35 and Interstate 80.

According to the state patrol, two people have died and seven hurt in a multiple-vehicle pileup on I-35 southbound at the 150 mile marker near the Hamilton County and Wright County line.  A earlier report said three people had died.

Officials said 25 vehicles are involved in that crash, caused by near-zero visibility. The roadway remains closed as rescue crews work to get to victims and clear the roadway.

ISP officials also reported a multiple-vehicle crash on I-80 near Grinnell. Officials said several trucks were involved in that crash and the eastbound lanes are completely blocked.

Colonel David Garrison said, "It's time to listen to warnings and get off the road. Iowa's highways and interstates remain in poor condition for travel. Troopers will continue to assist motorists who become stranded in this dangerous weather. But your safest bet is to avoid travel altogether. If you don't travel, you can't become stranded."

Travel is not advised in Iowa today. These photos explain why.
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Travel is not advised in Iowa today.  These photos explain why.