Emergency managers in Des Moines are mobilizing to guard against potential flooding after recent heavy rains saturated central Iowa’s soils and caused the Raccoon River to climb. While the river currently sits at about 7 feet—well below the 17‑foot threshold that normally triggers gate closures—officials are acting early to protect residents and critical infrastructure.
Water‑works takes decisive action
Kyle Danley, chief operating officer of Des Moines Water Works, explained that the agency has not experienced a moderate flood in seven years. In an unusual move, the water‑works team closed the massive gates surrounding its treatment plant on Wednesday afternoon. “We are preparing more than 15 right now, just being very conservative,” Danley said, noting that multiple crews are on standby and that the gates can be shut quickly if conditions worsen.
As a precaution, the western portion of the Water Works park—an area that frequently floods when the Raccoon River swells—has been closed to the public.
New flood gate promises faster response
Des Moines Public Works Director Jonathan Gano highlighted a recent infrastructure upgrade that will improve the city’s flood‑control capabilities. A new flood gate at the intersection of Fleur Drive and George Flagg Parkway now rolls on wheels and can be closed in roughly 30 seconds, a dramatic improvement over the older gate that required a full day to install.
“What that gets us is a much more responsive flood control system there, and that we don’t have to plan quite so far in advance,” Gano said. The faster‑acting gate is expected to give the city more flexibility in managing sudden water level spikes.
Roads and emergency assistance
Crews have positioned road‑closure signs and barriers to keep traffic out of low‑lying areas should moderate flooding occur Thursday or Friday. Polk County emergency managers are also urging homeowners with flooded basements to complete an online form. The data will help the county request a disaster proclamation from the governor’s office and secure state grant funding.
Assistant Polk County emergency manager Brett McIntyre explained, “That’s how we can then turn to the state and to the governor’s office and ask for a disaster proclamation and potentially get the grant programs act effectively. So that’s very, very important, invaluable information to us. While it doesn’t necessarily sign you up for anything, it could have an impact down the road.”
What residents should expect
Officials stress that they are preparing for a range of outcomes, from minor water‑level rises to more significant flooding. “We’re prepared for all the potential outcomes of whatever Mother Nature means or what I’ve said as far as rainfall in the next couple of days,” Gano added.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and the city’s emergency‑management website, and to follow any road‑closure notices or evacuation advisories that may be issued.
Looking ahead
The proactive steps taken by Des Moines Water Works and Public Works illustrate the city’s commitment to safeguarding families and property while respecting the community’s reliance on reliable water services. By investing in faster‑acting flood‑gate technology and coordinating with county officials, the administration aims to mitigate flood risk and preserve the stability that traditional families and faith‑based neighborhoods depend upon.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
