The wet weather trend has persisted, as the weekly drought monitor is containing less and less dryness with every release. Iowa State Climatologist Dr. Justin Glisan said that wetter weather pattern is likely to continue for a while as well.
Northwest Iowa has seen the worst of the excessive rainfall by far, as river flooding has pummeled the region. Unfortunately, Glisan said the upcoming weather won’t provide much relief.
Glisan added that it’s not just the sheer amount of rainfall that’s the issue- the incredibly short timeframe in which it has fallen has overwhelmed many waterways.
Glisan said the water will have to naturally run off to the south, but since Iowa is bordered by two of the largest rivers in the Northern Hemisphere, that process can take a significant amount of time.
Glisan said this water is also very dirty since it has been literally everywhere, so it poses a biohazard risk on top of being an unforgiving force of nature.
Due to the sudden and powerful effects of flooding, Glisan said it’s incredibly important to stay weather aware and keep emergency kits ready.
For more information, visit iowaagriculture.gov/climatology-bureau.
