Des Moines, Iowa – Central Iowa residents face an elevated flash flooding risk through early next week as repeated rounds of thunderstorms bring heavy rainfall. The National Weather Service in Des Moines warns that even a few inches of moving water on roads can be life-threatening, and urges the public to report accurate water depths and flow when flooding occurs.
According to the NWS, flash flooding occurs when water depth and movement meet specific thresholds — such as 6 inches of rapidly moving water, 12 inches of slower-moving water, or 3 feet of standing water posing a direct threat to life and property. Reports of “water over the road” alone are not enough to classify a flash flood without these measurements.
Flooding is most dangerous in areas unaccustomed to high water and in locations where water quickly overtops roadways. Basement flooding alone may not meet flash flood criteria unless it results from significant outside intrusion. Residents are urged to never enter flooded areas and to turn around rather than attempt driving through water.
Warnings remain possible through Monday, with additional advisories likely if storms persist.
