Des Moines, Iowa — As unseasonably warm temperatures sweep across the state this week, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is sounding the alarm about rapidly worsening ice conditions on many lakes. Conservation officers are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution when engaging in ice-related activities such as ice fishing, walking, or operating off-highway vehicles (OHVs) like snowmobiles and ATVs.

“Ice conditions have been changing by the day, and even by the hour in some places,” said Craig Cutts, Iowa DNR Law Enforcement Bureau Chief. This rapid variability underscores the unpredictable nature of the ice right now, making it essential for anyone venturing out to prioritize safety.

A key factor accelerating the deterioration is the lack of significant snow cover across much of Iowa. Snow typically acts as an insulating blanket, slowing the melting process even during periods of milder weather. Without it, direct sunlight and rising temperatures cause the ice to expand, contract, crack, and weaken more quickly. Areas near the shoreline or lake banks are particularly vulnerable, as they tend to thin out first due to shallower water, sunlight exposure, and potential underwater currents or springs.

“This is where you can go through quickly, so be sure and check ice thickness every step of the way,” Cutts emphasized. He advised keeping a safe distance from any open water or areas showing signs of weakness, such as dark spots, slush, cracks, or discoloration.

The DNR stresses that ice thickness is never uniform across a single body of water and can vary dramatically even within short distances. Factors like underwater springs, moving water inflows, vegetation, depth changes, and recent weather fluctuations all contribute to these inconsistencies. As a result, no ice can be considered 100% safe.

“We emphasize that ice thickness varies on each body of water. It’s a good reminder that no ice is 100 percent safe – and to trust your instincts – if it doesn’t look right, stay off,” Cutts added.