Missouri River rises into areas of Pottawattamie County

Posted June 25, 2024
Posted by Public Relations

Pottawattamie County, Iowa – After days of anticipation, water levels of the Missouri River have now risen into areas of Pottawattamie County. The flooding follows Monday’s announcement that Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issued a Disaster Emergency Proclamation for five counties- including Pottawattamie County.

Currently, the Missouri River level is at 28.8 feet. Level projections from the National Weather Service are rapidly evolving, with the latest models expecting the river to crest on Thursday, June 27th around 1:00 a.m. at 35.4 feet. Officials anticipate the river will quickly recede, decreasing to Minor Flood Level on Sunday, June 30th, and back below flood stage on Tuesday, July 2nd.

Local, state, and federal partners have communicated and planned response priorities and continue to partner to meet the needs of local governments and the residents that face potential impacts from this event.

Voluntary evacuations were announced for two areas in Pottawattamie County and Council Bluffs on Monday.

Evacuation Area 1

• Northwest Pottawattamie County from Harrison County south to Council Bluffs, and east from the Missouri River to I-29.

Evacuation Area 2

• In Council Bluffs- Emil Lane, Dog Bite Lane, and the east to west spans of Gifford Road between S 19th Street and S 35th Street.

Alert Iowa notifications were sent to property owners within both evacuation areas via text and email, and local law enforcement distributed flyers to each residence. Of the 40 residential properties affected, 16 have announced intentions to evacuate. There have been no communicated needs for emergency shelter.  

Precautionary measures and temporary closures:

• Local law enforcement and Fire Depts are surging staff to support evacuation and rescue operations as may be needed.
• Iowa DNR has closed Wilson Island State Park and the river access boat ramps south of Lake Manawa.
• Pottawattamie County Conservation has closed Narrows River Park.
• City of Council Bluffs has closed Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park.
• Several road closures are anticipated.
  • Closures announced by Pottawattamie County Secondary Roads found, here.
  • Closures announced by City of Council Bluffs Public Works found, here.
• Iowa DOT anticipates closures to portions of I-29 and I-680 by as early as Tuesday evening.
• City of Council Bluffs flood and drainage gates are closed, and stormwater pumps are operational.

There is a potential for severe weather in the area in the coming days. Heavy rain, high winds, and hail are possible. If areas north of Pottawattamie County receive high amounts of precipitation, projected levels of the Missouri River will change. Residents are encouraged to use best judgement and stay safe. Don’t drive through standing water. If you feel it’s necessary to evacuate your home, don’t wait until it’s too late.

To receive emergency weather warnings and community alerts such as evacuations, shelter locations, and other emergency notices, sign up for free alerts from Alert Iowa visit, pcema-ia.org/alert-iowa. 

Ongoing flood information and a link for property owners to report storm-related damage can be accessed on the Pottawattamie County Emergency Management Agency website, pcema-ia.org.