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Iowa · Risk Readiness
What's actually likely where you live.
Before the emergency — maps, tools, and the honest picture of what Iowa throws at different parts of the state.
See IA hazardsIA hazard profile
Primary hazards. Ranked.
Iowa is the derecho capital of the US. The August 10, 2020 derecho produced 140 mph winds across the entire state, causing $11B in damage — one of the costliest weather events in US history. Derecho events hit Iowa with little warning and can be more destructive than tornadoes across a far wider area. Late summer is peak season. Iowa averages 46 tornadoes per year. The Des Moines metro, Cedar Rapids, and the Iowa River valley are the most active corridors. Spring season (April–June) is peak. The May 25, 2008 Parkersburg tornado — an EF-5 — killed 9 people and destroyed 300+ homes. Iowa's open terrain gives longer warning times, but also means tornadoes travel further. Iowa's rivers flood with regularity. The June 2008 flood submerged one-third of Cedar Rapids — the worst flood in the city's history. The Iowa, Cedar, Des Moines, and Missouri rivers all have significant flood histories. Spring snowmelt combined with heavy rain is the most dangerous combination.
Severe thunderstorms
Damaging straight-line winds, large hail, and lightning — March through October.
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Tornadoes
Occur across most of the state, often embedded in severe thunderstorm lines and tropical systems.
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Flooding
Flash floods, river flooding, and coastal surge affect low-lying areas and river corridors.
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Winter ice & snow storms
Ice accumulation causes prolonged power outages and road closures across the state.
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Heat waves
Extreme heat events endanger vulnerable residents and stress power infrastructure.
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Official tools
Look up your address. Know your risk.
FEMA Flood Zone Lookup
Enter your address to see your flood zone designation and insurance requirements.
Source: FEMA
USGS Earthquake Map
Real-time earthquake activity and seismic hazard maps for your region.
Source: USGS
Wildfire Risk Score
Your property's wildfire exposure score based on vegetation, terrain, and proximity to wildland.
Source: USFS
River Gauges
Real-time river levels and flood stage by county.
Source: USGS WaterWatch
Drought Monitor
Weekly drought conditions by county.
Source: US Drought Monitor
Private Well Resources
Water quality guidance for households on private wells.
Source: EPA
Insurance gaps
What your homeowner's policy doesn't cover.
Standard homeowner's policies in Iowa exclude flood damage. Flood insurance through the NFIP has a 30-day waiting period — it cannot be purchased when a storm is forecast. Check your declarations page annually to confirm your coverage limits and deductibles.
Not in your standard policy
Flood damage — requires NFIP or private flood policy
Earthquake damage — requires separate endorsement
Sewer & drain backup — requires endorsement ($50–$100/yr)
Landslide / mudflow — generally excluded
Next steps
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During an emergency
Find alerts, contacts, and shelters.
NC emergency contacts, alert signups, and real-time information.
Local EmergencyGet prepared
Run through the IA checklist.
Step-by-step actions based on the hazards that apply to Iowa.
IA Checklists