Hundreds of Iowans have been left homeless due to the severe flash flooding that occurred over the weekend in northwest Iowa. The town of Rock Valley experienced a deluge of more than four inches of rainfall in less than 90 minutes, resulting in widespread destruction. As a result, Governor Kim Reynolds has submitted a request for an expedited presidential disaster declaration for the hardest-hit counties.

During a news conference on Sunday, Governor Reynolds revealed that nearly 2,000 properties had been affected by the flooding, with hundreds of homes completely destroyed. The governor had already declared a state disaster for 22 Iowa counties. Efforts are currently underway to assess the damage incurred by farmers in the affected areas.

The heavy rain has now subsided, but many waterways are under flood warnings. Record-breaking flooding is anticipated, with the Little Sioux River at Linn Grove projected to crest nearly six feet higher than the previous record set in 1993. Forecasters also predict record-breaking flooding downstream in Correctionville.

Authorities caution that flood forecasts are subject to change due to the possibility of additional rainfall across the state. John Benson, the Iowa Homeland Security Director, urged residents along the Missouri River and surrounding rivers to pay close attention to the evolving forecast. Officials are in communication with counterparts in eastern Iowa, as floodwaters from northern Iowa move downstream. Concerns are mounting that current flood forecasts may be altered based on future rainfall later in the week.

Meteorologist Donna Dubberke, in charge at the National Weather Service in Des Moines, explained that not all the upcoming rain has been factored into the current flooding forecast. She emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, especially as major flooding is expected along parts of the Mississippi River by the end of the week. Dubberke indicated that weather models suggest heavy rain may affect central and eastern regions of Iowa, compounding the challenges posed by the recent flash floods.

Governor Reynolds urged all Iowans to stay informed through local broadcast outlets and other information centers for updates regarding the ever-changing river forecast. She also stressed the necessity of promptly adhering to evacuation orders if and when they are issued.

The path to recovery and rebuilding will be long and arduous for the affected communities in northwest Iowa. The state government's request for federal assistance demonstrates the urgency and severity of the situation. As Iowans band together to navigate these challenging times, collective efforts are essential to overcome the devastating aftermath of the floods and provide support to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods.