The entire state’s under a wind advisory today (Friday) and strong gusts are causing traffic troubles in northwest Iowa. On Highway 75, just south of Merrill, a semi truck and trailer has overturned, partially blocking the northbound traffic. Authorities are detouring northbound traffic on Highway 75, until such time they can get the truck back upright. A second truck and trailer apparently tried to pull off the roadway on to the shoulder, when the rig had jack-knifed. Authorities are working on both situations.

Meteorologist Todd Heitkemp at the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, says winds are approaching hurricane strength. “We’ve had gusts reported all across the upper Midwest that exceeded 40, 45 and even 50 miles an hour,” Heitkep says. “The latest, strongest wind gusts, we’ve had over 70 miles an hour in Mitchell.” The winds are blowing in much warmer weather. Most of Iowa will see high temperatures this afternoon in the 50s and 60s. Shenandoah had 73 on Thursday for the state’s hot spot.

(Radio Iowa)