Flood in Buena Vista County, Iowa

Rainfall amounts across Buena Vista County from June 20-22 ranged from around a quarter of an inch across southern areas to nearly 3 inches across northern areas. Farther north and upstream, 3 to 7 inches of rain fell across portions of northwest Iowa. This rainfall resulted in major to record flooding along the Little Sioux River and overland flooding along the adjoining flood plain.

The majority of flood impacts occurred across the far northern portion of the county, including the communities of Sioux Rapids and Linn Grove. Several area homes were proactively evacuated. Most of the business district in Sioux Rapids flooded with some buildings collapsing. Approximately 80 homes and 30 businesses were damaged by flood waters.

Infrastructure was also severely impacted. The U.S. Highway 71 bridge north of Sioux Rapids was under water and closed. The Sioux Rapids water wells and wastewater treatment plant were inundated with water and the Linn Grove water system was also inundated. Preliminary damage assessments estimate loss to public infrastructure to be 2.44 million dollars.

For additional information on river flooding, please see other flood entries for Buena Vista County.

A multi-day significant heavy rainfall event from June 20-22 resulted in widespread rain totals between 5 and 10 inches across portions of southeast South Dakota, northwest Iowa, and southwest Minnesota. As rainfall reached area streams and rivers, major to record flooding was observed, devastating several towns and communities. Extensive overland flooding also resulted in significant impacts and damages. All river crest information is preliminary until made official by the gauge owner.

A Presidential Disaster Declaration was signed for Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Lyon, Plymouth, O'Brien, Osceola, Sioux, and Woodbury Counties.