Cedar Rapids, Iowa – Moderate flooding is expected early next week across parts of eastern Iowa as the Cedar River continues to rise, prompting extended Flood Watches in Linn, Benton, Johnson, and Muscatine counties.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, recent and forecast rainfall through Thursday night will push the Cedar River to crest tonight into Thursday, with renewed rises likely this weekend. Flood stage is expected to be reached in Cedar Rapids, Vinton, Palo, and Cedar Bluff between Sunday night and Tuesday morning. In Cedar Rapids, moderate flooding may occur by early next week, impacting areas like Old River Road SW.
In Vinton, water could reach 15 feet by Monday morning, affecting 22nd Avenue Road. Palo could see backups from Dry Creek as water surpasses 12.5 feet, while Conesville and Cedar Bluff residents may face road impacts near Iowa Highway 22 and the Sutliff Recreation Bridge.
Residents in flood-prone zones should monitor alerts, avoid driving through water-covered roads, and prepare for possible evacuations or utility disruptions. Officials urge Iowans to secure property and stay informed through local emergency channels.
Flood Watches remain in effect through at least Tuesday. Additional advisories may be issued depending on weekend rainfall totals.
