Flood in Woodbury County, Iowa

Rainfall amounts across Woodbury County from June 20-22 were generally 1.0 inch or less. Farther north and upstream, 6 to 10 inches fell across portions of northwest Iowa and southeast South Dakota. This rainfall resulted in record flooding along the Big Sioux, Little Sioux, and Floyd Rivers, and extensive overland flooding along the adjoining flood plains.

Multiple communities were impacted by flood waters. At peak flooding, numerous swift water rescues were conducted. Approximately 1,000 people were evacuated from the Riverside Neighborhood of Sioux City, 500 people were evacuated from Correctionville, and 10 people were evacuated from Smithland. County-wide, there were approximately 300 homes that were damaged and 10 that were destroyed.

Public infrastructure was also severely impacted. Approximately 50 roads and bridges were closed due to flood waters. The railroad bridge across the Big Sioux River to South Dakota collapsed. The Correctionville energy transfer station and sewage lift station failed, while the fire station and city hall flooded. The Smithland sewage lift station failed and the Sioux City Wastewater Treatment Plant was damaged. Preliminary damage assessments estimate the loss to public infrastructure to be 4.13 million dollars.

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.