Storm-day essentials in Osceola: where to grab gear fast

When the snow hits, keep it simple. You don’t need a giant list. You need a short route, a few smart picks, and a plan to stay put!

The 20 minute errand loop around Osceola

Start close, grab the basics, get back safe.

• Ace Hardware, 1012 Jeffreys Dr, Osceola: hand warmers, ice melt, snow brushes, extension cords, flashlight batteries. Typical hours run mornings to early evening, plus weekend coverage. Call if the weather looks rough.
• Walmart, 2400 College Dr, Osceola: windshield washer fluid, thermoses, gloves, hats, space heaters, pantry staples, pharmacy. Open early to late most days. The lot is wide, which helps when plows are still working.
• Hy-Vee, 510 W McLane St, Osceola: ready soups, rotisserie chicken, bread, shelf milk, tea, cocoa, pharmacy. Good last stop before you head back.

Quick room kit, plus staying put and going out

Washer fluid, ice scraper, small shovel, traction salt, extra gloves, socks, stocking cap, phone charger, batteries, flashlight, thermos, instant cocoa or tea, soup, crackers, fruit, protein bars. Keep it by the door. Refill after each storm.

Storm nights are a good time for warm food and rest. Read, play cards, watch a movie, call home. Save errands for daylight. If power blinks, layer up, keep doors closed, and use that thermos you filled earlier.

Check conditions before you move. The Iowa 511 site and app show road reports, cameras, and plow locations. Keep it slow and leave space.

Helpful local info, helpful decision guide

AT Clarke County Hospital, 800 S Fillmore St, emergency care is available. Call ahead for non-emergency questions. Pharmacies: Hy-Vee Pharmacy hours vary by day, Walmart Pharmacy typically open until evening. Verify hours during storms.

• Visibility is bad, wind is high, or plows aren’t caught up yet, wait.
• You only need one or two items, ask the front desk or a neighbor if they can spare it.
• If you do go, use the loop in this order, Ace, Walmart, Hy-Vee, then straight back.