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

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.

If you should stay put

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.

If you must go out

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

Clarke County Hospital, 800 S Fillmore St, main line 641-342-2184. 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.

Simple decision guide

• 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.

Copy and paste links and contacts

Ace Hardware Osceola

Walmart Osceola
Hy-Vee Osceola store page
Hy-Vee Pharmacy in Osceola details
Iowa 511 road conditions
Clarke County Hospital

Internal link: Handy stops for supplies in Osceola: tools, groceries, bait, quick fixes