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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- With snowfall of 4 to 8 inches in the forecast,  the City of Ottumwa's Snow Emergency Ordinance will go into effect at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. Residents are reminded that while the Snow Emergency is declared, no parking is allowed on streets designated as “Snow Routes” until the emergency is lifted.   Snow Routes are marked with square blue signs showing a white snowflake.

Parking on non-snow emergency route streets rotates sides on a daily basis.  On the even numbered days, parking is allowed on the even numbered side of the street.  On the odd numbered days, parking is allowed on the odd numbered side of the street.

The Snow Emergency will remain in effect until further notice. While the Snow Emergency Ordinance is in effect, all vehicles parked out of compliance with the Ordinance are subject to being towed and impounded and a citation will be issued and fee charged for towing and impoundment.    

During snow storms, City Public Works crews focus on keeping the snow routes and major streets open through the duration of the storm.  This allows essential and emergency travel around town even in the worst of conditions.  Once the snow stops, the focus shifts to clearing the side streets and residential areas.   

During winter storms, City, County and State snowplows work hard to make roads passable.   All motorists should be mindful that plow drivers cannot see directly behind their trucks and often stop or back up.  Staying a safe distance behind a snowplow will protect you from possible injury and protect your car from sanding material that plows spread on slick roadways.