Iowa weather: Heavy rain caused flash flooding in some central Iowa towns Friday

From staff reports
·2 min read

Much of central Iowa got between 2 and 3.5 inches of rain Friday morning as strong thunderstorms moved east across the state.

The National Weather Service issued several flash flood warnings and some communities, including Huxley in southern Story County and Polk City in northern Polk County, saw isolated incidents of flooded roads and residential neighborhoods.

As of Friday afternoon, Maxwell had about 3.8 inches of rain while Huxley and Polk City both got about 3.5 inches.

"Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads," the weather service warned on Twitter.

Central Iowa has a slight risk for severe storms on Saturday that could include hail and damaging winds, according to the weather service, which said "Areas that experienced heavy rainfall on Friday will be at increased risk for flooding with additional rainfall on Saturday."

Mat Kahler, an employee of the City of Huxley, works to remove the drain clog to clear the water after heavy rainfall throughout the morning that created a flash flood on HWY 69 on Friday, April 22, 2022, in Huxley, Iowa.
Mat Kahler, an employee of the City of Huxley, works to remove the drain clog to clear the water after heavy rainfall throughout the morning that created a flash flood on HWY 69 on Friday, April 22, 2022, in Huxley, Iowa.

Des Moines forecast through the weekend

Saturday: Expect a high of 76 degrees with strong winds between 20-24 mph and gusts up to 43 mph. Showers are likely throughout the day with thunderstorms possible after 4 p.m.

Sunday: High of 60 and breezy with mostly sunny conditions and a slight chance of showers.

Here's what to do if you get water in your basement

Here are a few tips from a water damage restoration professional, according to the Indianapolis Star:

  • Don’t delay in addressing flooding — and consider a professional service that is registered with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau or Angie’s List.

  • Insurance often covers much of the cost, and consumer shop vacs and dehumidifiers are not always effective. If you don’t begin a dry-out within three days, you risk mold infestation, which can be even more costly and harmful to your family’s health.

  • Costs for drying out a basement can run from about $3,500 to $7,000 — and that doesn't cover the cost of repairing any damage or replacing lost items.

  • Damage can sometimes be hidden behind drywall or beneath carpets that feel dry.

More: Flood Cleanup: Tips for salvaging valuables

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Rainfall totals Friday for some central Iowa towns