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. 

An outreach event at the LACMRERS facility, as students look at a watershed model located outside by the river

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

Kaleb Young

Graduate spotlight: Kaleb Young

Tuesday, May 20, 2025
When Kaleb Young started studying at the University of Iowa, he wanted to become a doctor. And while he’ll gain that title, it will not be an MD like he originally planned but a PhD with a focus in flood mitigation.
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

Events

Women and Water promotional image

Women and Water

Saturday, June 14, 2025 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Mississippi River Museum at the Train Depot
Join us for the Women and Water event on June 14th! Water supports ecosystems, biodiversity, and human life. By understanding its roles, from environmental cycles to cultural significance, we appreciate its value more. This experience highlights water's essential nature and reminds us of our duty to protect this precious resource. Take a tour and hear from water experts:"Upstream Thinking" from Dr. Brandi Janssen, University of Iowa Clinical Associate Professor, Occupational and Environmental...
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