Serving Iowans

The Iowa Flood Center (IFC) puts science-based information and technology in the hands of Iowa's decision-makers, emergency responders, community leaders, home and business owners, educators, and the public. IFC researchers, staff, and students strive to develop the most innovative tools and reliable information to improve Iowa's flood preparedness and resiliency. 

stream sensor in action

Flood Monitoring

Nearly 300 stream-stage sensors designed, built, and deployed by IFC measure river levels every 15 minutes, improving flood monitoring and forecasting. Hydrologic weather stations improve flood- and drought- prediction capabilities.

flood inundation maps for Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Flood Mapping

High-resolution statewide flood maps for every Iowa stream, along with scenario-based flood inundation maps, keep individuals and communities safe and informed—protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure. 

farm pond

Flood Mitigation

IFC staff and researchers provide leadership and technical expertise that supports collaborations with local, state, and federal partners to develop and implement watershed-based strategies to mitigate flood damage and increase resilience. 

watershed model demonstration

Education and Outreach

The IFC participates in dozens of outreach activities each year and is dedicated to ensuring its resources are easily accessible and tailored for diverse audiences. IFC support for undergrad and grad students is developing Iowa's future workforce. 

Iowa Flood Information System

IFIS is a free, Google Maps-based web platform that communicates real-time information about stream levels, flood alerts and forecasts, and hydrologic conditions for the entire state of Iowa.

Sam Hermite

"Iowa really knows...They've modeled and mapped the state, they have great data and visualization tools, and they have really effective outreach and communication. To really have a complete flood approach, you have to do all of those things."

Assistant Deputy Executive Administrator of Water Science & Conservation for the Texas Water Development Board

News & Features

A flooded intersection

Spencer First Priority for Iowa Flood Center

Monday, May 12, 2025
The Director of the Iowa Flood Center says Spencer is now on the map as a priority for flood control. Larry Weber says 2024 demonstrated how large the watershed to the North of the community is, and flooding in Spencer is a harbinger for communities downstream
A photo of the crowd from the back of the Spencer town hall

City of Spencer hosted a Flood Recovery Community Update Event

Monday, May 12, 2025
In Spencer, Iowa, city leaders held an event to update residents on flood recovery. They shared the progress they have made over the past eleven months, and offered resources to help members of the community better prepare themselves for the future.

Events

Meandering River promotional image

Meandering River

Sunday, May 18, 2025 6:00pm to 7:30pm
Lagoon Shelter House
Discover Your University promotional image

Discover Your University

Tuesday, May 20, 2025 1:00pm to 2:30pm
Hydraulics Wind Tunnel Annex
Participants will learn about the research activities at IIHR, including the statewide hydraulic monitoring network maintained by the Iowa Flood Center. The tour will include a visit to research labs housed in the Hydraulics Wind Tunnel Annex and discussions with IIHR research staff and faculty.
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