Iowa · Preparedness Guide
Tornadoes, derechos with 140 mph winds, catastrophic river floods, blizzards, and summer heat — Iowa's agricultural landscape offers no shelter and no margin for unpreparedness.
About this guide
Iowa sits at the convergence of weather systems from every direction, producing some of the most varied and violent weather in the Midwest. The August 10, 2020 derecho — a line of straight-line wind storms with gusts to 140 mph — swept across the entire state in hours, causing $11 billion in damage and destroying 35-40% of Iowa's corn crop. It was one of the costliest weather disasters in US history. The 2008 Cedar Rapids flood submerged a third of the city. Spring tornado outbreaks hit the Des Moines and Iowa City corridors regularly. Winter blizzards close I-80 and I-35 multiple times per year. Iowa's flat, open landscape means there's nowhere to hide from any of it — preparation is the only option.
Local self-reliance starts with knowing your place.
Quick facts
Top hazards: Derechos & Severe Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, Flooding
IA has expanded Medicaid — adults up to 138% FPL may qualify
USDA hardiness zones: 4b (northern IA / Mason City area) to 6a (southern IA / Council Bluffs area)
Unemployment: up to $763/week for 26 weeks
Free or low-cost soil testing available through the state extension service
Seven topics, one state
Each section focuses on one question. Find what you need without wading through what you don't.
Official maps and tools for flood, fire, earthquake, water, dam, river, and local hazard awareness.
Am I at risk? →
Find nearby courses, extension programs, and emergency training that build practical skills.
Where do I learn? →
Connect with local gatherings, neighbor-help efforts, civic groups, and community support networks.
What's happening near me? →
Find official alerts, emergency agencies, trauma centers, and crisis-response information near you.
Who do I call? →
Use local frost dates, planting zones, soil data, extension calendars, and composting guidance.
What can I grow? →
Find food, utility, health, unemployment, and 211 resources before hardship becomes crisis.
Where can I find help? →
Find your county transit provider, demand-response ride service, and carpool matching options.
How do I get around? →
Simple step-by-step preparedness checklists for your home, family, garden, documents, and local risks.
What do I do next? →
Get specific
Enter your ZIP code to see real-time weather alerts, drought conditions, FEMA disaster declarations, and county-level resources.
Next steps
Know your risks
Flood zones, hazard maps, and the IA risks that apply to your county.
Local Risk ReadinessBuild the basics
The universal first step — before you personalize, get the 72-hour foundation in place.
First 72 Hours