There are several road closures in northwest Iowa due to flooding that occurred as a result of significant rain that fell from Thursday evening through this (Sat) morning, and travel is not advised in several area counties.
There are currently widespread flash flooding and river flooding issues. There are currently 20 road closures in northwest Iowa including Highway 71 in both directions near Sioux Rapids, as the town is experiencing significant flooding (pictures below). Highway 59 in Cherokee is closed in both directions, and Highway 3 north of Cherokee is also closed in both directions. There are multiple road closures in Clay County, especially around Spencer where there are major flood issues. Not all closures will allow for detours as secondary roadways are also flooded.
The Iowa Department of Transportation has issued a warning that strongly discourages travel in Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, O’Brien, Lyon, Plymouth, and Sioux counties.
Iowans are urged to closely monitor conditions and never enter a water-covered roadway. Flood waters can force a vehicle off the roadway. Visit 511ia.org for up-to-date roadway conditions.
The Iowa DOT is working with other state agencies to assist local communities in flood response.
(photos credit to Dan Van Iperen)