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.
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 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.
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.
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.
"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."
News & Features
Iowa House passes bill to create state plan for flood protection
Iowa research engineer invents physics-based approach for measuring river flow
Events
Iowa Flood Center & Iowa Geological Survey Legislative Breakfast
Thanks to the leadership and foresight of the Iowa Legislature, Iowans have access to reliable tools and resources through the collaborative efforts of the Iowa Flood Center (IFC) and Iowa Geological Survey (IGS) to enhance decision-making for floods, droughts, and groundwater challenges that impact our state.
IFC and IGS students, staff, and researchers will host their annual legislative breakfast reception on Tuesday, March 10 from 7 to 9 a.m. at the Iowa State Capitol Building in the first...
Celebrate Iowa's Outdoors Day
Come to the Capitol for interactive displays, speakers and to connect with legislators for Celebrate Iowa's Outdoors Day!
Do you love Iowa’s outdoors?
Iowa’s parks, trails, wildlife, soil and water are all part of our quality of life and cause for celebration! Connect with legislators and meet other Iowans passionate about protecting spaces for outdoor recreation and caring for our natural resources. The day will feature:
A complimentary lunch
Interactive displays
Engaging speakers
The opportunity to...
West Liberty Science Night
K-4 children and parents are invited to the West Liberty Science Night on Thursday, April 2nd!
Join us for a fun-filled night of interactive science demonstrations and activities provided by various organizations, including IIHR—Hydroscience & Engineering and the Iowa Flood Center.
We hope to see you there!