Des Moines, Iowa – Heavy rainfall overnight has triggered a flash flood watch across central and southern Iowa, with up to 5 inches of rain possible before 10 a.m. Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, thunderstorms capable of producing intense rainfall rates—1 to 2 inches per hour—are moving through the region early Sunday morning. The flood watch remains in effect until 10 a.m. and includes over 30 counties, stretching from Sac City and Carroll to Ottumwa and Bloomfield.
Cities such as Des Moines, Ames, Waterloo, and Newton are at risk for urban and low-lying flooding, especially near rivers, streams, and poorly drained areas. Roadways like I-35 near Ankeny and I-80 through Polk and Dallas counties may become hazardous due to ponding water and reduced visibility.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded streets, monitor local road conditions, and stay alert to emergency updates. Power outages and infrastructure strain are possible in the hardest-hit areas.
Rainfall totals could exceed 5 inches in isolated locations, making this one of the heaviest single-day rain events of the summer for parts of Iowa.
More thunderstorms are possible later today, and additional advisories may follow.
