Iowa deals with some of the nation’s most unpredictable and dangerous weather. One day, tornadoes or severe thunderstorms can roll in during spring and summer. A few months later, you’re facing blizzards and bitter cold. You really never know what’s coming, so it’s smart to stay prepared for conditions that can threaten both lives and property.
Getting ready before extreme weather hits can make a huge difference for Iowa families. Too often, weather-related injuries and deaths happen because people don’t have basic emergency supplies or haven’t made a plan for when things turn dangerous.
If you understand Iowa’s weather patterns, set up emergency plans, and keep the right supplies on hand, you’ll handle severe weather much more effectively. This guide lays out the steps every Iowan should take to protect themselves and their families from the state’s wild weather.
Understanding Extreme Weather Risks in Iowa
Iowa gets hit with all sorts of dangerous weather, and each season brings its own set of worries. Climate change has made these events even more intense and unpredictable.
Types of Severe Weather Events
You won’t see hurricanes in Iowa, but almost every other kind of severe weather can show up. Tornadoes are probably the biggest threat in spring and summer. These spinning storms can wreck entire neighborhoods in just a few minutes.
Derechos are another huge problem. These massive windstorms can leave billions of dollars in damage behind. The 2020 derecho in Iowa, for example, caused more than $11 billion in losses.
Severe thunderstorms are pretty common and can bring:
- Large hail that pounds crops and property
- Winds over 58 mph that knock things over
- Heavy rain that leads to flash floods
- Dangerous lightning
Winter weather brings a whole different set of problems. Blizzards can dump heavy snow and whip up strong winds. Ice storms coat everything in a slick, dangerous layer. Bitter cold can be hazardous for anyone caught unprepared.
Heat waves in summer can be deadly too. High temperatures and humidity combine to make things miserable and risky. Flooding happens when rivers overflow or heavy rain overwhelms drainage systems.
Seasonal Weather Patterns and Trends
Spring is tornado season in Iowa. Most tornadoes happen between April and June. Severe thunderstorms also ramp up during these months.
When summer hits, the focus shifts to heat and storms. July and August are usually the hottest. Afternoon and evening storms pop up a lot. Derechos tend to form in the summer too.
Fall is a mixed bag. Early autumn can still bring nasty storms. By late fall, winter weather starts creeping in.
Winter storms take over from December through March. Blizzards can hit quickly, and ice storms can make travel nearly impossible. Extreme cold snaps put extra stress on heating systems.
The National Weather Service tracks these patterns closely. They send out warnings when dangerous weather is on the way. Local emergency management teams use this info to help keep people safe.
Impact of Climate Change on Iowa’s Weather
Climate scientists say extreme weather events are only getting worse. Rising global temperatures affect Iowa in a few big ways.
More rain means a bigger flood risk. Heavy downpours flood storm drains and rivers. Spring flooding has become more common.
Temperature swings have gotten more intense. Heat waves last longer and get hotter. Cold snaps can still show up, even though the overall trend is warmer.
Storms pack a bigger punch these days. Thunderstorms produce larger hail and stronger winds. Derechos might become even more damaging.
Nobody can afford to tune out the weather anymore. Old seasonal patterns aren’t as reliable as they once were. Now, you really need to pay attention to National Weather Service forecasts all year.
Staying Informed and Weather Awareness
Knowing when dangerous weather is coming—and understanding what the warnings mean—can actually save your life. The National Weather Service sends out alerts in a bunch of ways, and state programs help keep Iowans prepared.
Recognizing Watches, Warnings, and Advisories
You’ll see three main types of alerts from the National Weather Service. A watch means conditions are right for severe weather to develop. A warning means dangerous weather is happening right now or will very soon.
An advisory lets people know about weather that could cause problems, but it’s not as serious as a warning. Watches usually cover bigger areas and last longer. Warnings zoom in on smaller spots where you need to act fast.
Take watches seriously and get ready to move. When a warning gets issued, take shelter immediately. Advisories mean you should be careful, but you probably don’t need to rush.
Choosing Reliable Weather Alert Systems
Alert Iowa sends emergency notifications to people in 92 counties. You can sign up online to get alerts on your phone or computer. NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts weather info and emergency alerts nonstop.
Local TV and radio stations also share weather updates. Many phone apps send push notifications when severe weather is near. It’s best to use more than one alert system—don’t just rely on a single source.
Weather radios keep working even if the power’s out or cell towers go down. They blast out loud alarms when emergencies happen. Battery-powered or hand-crank radios are great backups during outages.
Severe Weather Awareness Week Initiatives
Every March, Iowa holds Severe Weather Awareness Week. The National Weather Service and Iowa Department of Homeland Security use this time to promote safety. A statewide tornado drill happens on Wednesday at 10 AM during the week.
These programs teach people about weather hazards and safety steps. Schools, businesses, and families practice what to do if things get bad. Weather spotters get training so they can help keep their communities safe.
Other events include Heat Awareness Day in June, Lightning Awareness Week in late June, and Winter Weather Awareness Day in November. These efforts help folks get ready for whatever the season throws at them.
Creating a Family Emergency Plan
A good family emergency plan makes sure everyone knows what to do when the weather gets scary in Iowa. You’ll want clear ways to communicate, safe places to go, and plans for pets or anyone with special needs.
Communication Strategies and Emergency Contacts
Families should have several ways to stay in touch if the weather turns bad. Storms often knock out phone lines, so backup plans matter.
Pick an out-of-town contact person who lives far away from Iowa. If local phone service goes down, everyone can call this person to check in. Make sure everyone knows this contact’s number by heart.
Key contacts to list:
- Out-of-town family contact
- Local emergency services (911)
- Non-emergency police line
- Insurance company
- Healthcare providers
- Schools and daycares
- Veterinarian
Save these numbers in everyone’s phone and write them on cards. Post emergency numbers near home phones so nobody forgets.
Teach your family when to call 911. Show them how to send text messages—sometimes texts go through when calls won’t.
Designating Safe Locations and Shelter Areas
Every family should know where to go for different weather threats. Iowa deals with tornadoes, severe storms, floods, and winter weather—all of which need different responses.
Find safe spots in your home:
- Go to the basement or lowest floor for tornadoes
- Use interior rooms away from windows for storms
- Head to higher floors if flooding is possible (flooding situations)
Practice your home and neighborhood evacuation routes. Learn at least two ways out in case something blocks the road.
Check with your local emergency management office about community shelters. Sign up for alerts to get updates on evacuations and shelter locations.
Most public shelters don’t allow pets. Know in advance which hotels, friends, or boarding places will take your animals if you have to leave home.
Planning for Pets and Special Needs
Pets and anyone with special needs need extra attention before storms hit. A little planning makes a big difference when things get hectic.
For pets, get ready with:
- A list of pet-friendly shelters or boarding places
- Contact info for friends or family who can help
- Up-to-date vaccination records
- Carriers for each pet
- Food and meds
People who rely on medical equipment need backup power plans. Contact your electric company about priority restoration if someone depends on life-sustaining equipment.
Older family members might need help getting out fast. Arrange for neighbors or relatives to check on them when severe weather hits.
Keep copies of important documents in waterproof containers. Include medical info, insurance papers, and IDs for everyone—including pets.
FEMA recommends practicing your family plan twice a year. Update contacts and make sure everyone remembers their role.
Preparing Your Home for Extreme Weather
Getting your home storm-ready means taking care of both inside and outside. You’ll want to move loose items, keep up with repairs, and check your insurance coverage.
Securing Outdoor Items and Property
Strong winds can turn normal outdoor stuff into dangerous projectiles. Move or tie down patio furniture, grills, and decorations before storms arrive.
Tree branches near the house can cause big problems. Trim any that hang over your roof or power lines. If a tree looks dead or damaged, remove it before it falls.
Things to secure or bring inside:
- Patio furniture and umbrellas
- Grills and cookout gear
- Garden tools and lawn equipment
- Sports gear and toys
- Trash and recycling bins
Check fences and outdoor structures for loose boards or weak spots. Installing storm shutters or plywood can shield your windows from flying debris.
Gutters and downspouts need to stay clear. If they’re clogged, heavy rain could flood your basement or damage your roof.
Essential Home Maintenance Tasks
Regular upkeep helps your home stand up to bad weather. Inspect your roof twice a year for loose shingles or damage.
Caulk windows and doors to block out cold air and water. Replace worn-out weather stripping.
Don’t skip these maintenance tasks:
- Install and test smoke alarms with backup batteries
- Check carbon monoxide detectors
- Insulate pipes to prevent freezing
- Seal air leaks
- Clean chimneys and heating systems
Get your HVAC system serviced before winter and summer. Clean filters help your system run better when you need it most.
Stock up on flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, and non-perishable food. Keep enough for each family member for at least three days.
Obtaining Appropriate Insurance
Standard homeowner’s insurance often doesn’t cover everything. Flood insurance is a separate policy, and it takes 30 days to kick in.
Review your insurance coverage every year. Replacement cost coverage costs more, but it’s worth it if you ever need to rebuild.
Insurance tips:
- Look into flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program
- Make sure your dwelling coverage matches rebuilding costs
- Cover your personal belongings
- Add coverage for living expenses if you can’t stay home
- Check wind and hail deductibles
Keep records of home improvements and valuables—photos and receipts help with claims.
Some places need extra coverage for windstorms or earthquakes. Ask your insurance agent about risks in your area.
Building an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit keeps you going when storms knock out power or block roads. You’ll want enough supplies to last your family at least 72 hours.
Must-Have Supplies for Severe Weather
Water is the top priority in any emergency kit. Each person needs one gallon of water per day for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
Store water in clean containers and swap it out every six months. Keep at least a three-day supply for everyone.
Stock up on non-perishable foods that don’t need cooking:
- Canned goods with pull-top lids
- Granola bars and crackers
- Peanut butter and nuts
- Dried fruits and cereal
Don’t forget a manual can opener if your cans don’t have pull-tops. Pack paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils so you don’t have to wash dishes.
Give each person a flashlight and bring extra batteries. A battery-powered or hand-crank radio helps you get weather updates when the power’s out.
Add basic tools like a wrench for shutting off gas, duct tape, and plastic sheeting. Keep some cash in small bills just in case electronic payments are down.
Power and Connectivity Essentials
Power outages are just part of life during Iowa storms. Portable battery packs keep phones charged for calls and alerts.
Solar chargers can help during long outages, especially once the sun comes back out. Hand-crank radios don’t need batteries or power at all.
Battery-powered lanterns are safer than candles and last longer. LED lanterns are especially bright and efficient.
Power backup ideas:
- Portable generators (always run them outside)
- Battery power stations
- Car chargers for phones and devices
Surge protectors shield electronics when the power comes back. Unplug devices during storms to avoid damage.
Keep extra batteries for radios, flashlights, and other gear. Store them in a cool, dry spot and check expiration dates often.
Health and Medications Preparation
When pharmacies close or roads get blocked, having medical supplies at home suddenly matters a lot. I always try to keep at least a seven-day supply of prescription meds for everyone in the family.
It’s best to store medications in their original containers with up-to-date labels. I rotate these supplies before they expire and stash them in a cool, dry spot—medicine really doesn’t like heat or humidity.
Essential medical supplies include:
- First aid kit with bandages and antiseptic
- Thermometer and pain relievers
- Prescription glasses or contacts
- Medical devices like inhalers
Special diets make things a bit trickier. I set aside baby formula, pet food, and foods for anyone with allergies or health conditions.
I keep copies of important documents in waterproof containers. Medical insurance cards, IDs, and emergency contact lists come in handy if we ever have to evacuate.
Personal hygiene matters, even in emergencies. I pack soap, toothbrushes, and feminine products to help everyone stay healthy. When water’s scarce, hand sanitizer becomes a lifesaver.
Safety Tips for Specific Weather Events
Every type of severe weather needs its own plan. It’s odd, but lightning actually kills more people than tornadoes most years, and winter storms cause the most deaths on the road.
Thunderstorm and Lightning Safety
Indoor Safety Rules
I stay inside during thunderstorms and avoid using anything that plugs in. Lightning sometimes travels through electrical wires and plumbing.
During storms, I keep away from windows, doors, and porches. Even phones and appliances can be risky if lightning strikes close by.
Outdoor Precautions
The 30-30 rule is easy to remember. If thunder follows lightning within 30 seconds, I get indoors right away.
Safe places outside include:
- Hard-topped vehicles with the windows shut
- Solid buildings with plumbing and wiring
- Permanent structures with four walls
What to Avoid
I never stand under tall trees or near metal fences when it’s storming. Hilltops, golf courses, open fields, and lakes are especially dangerous.
The National Weather Service says lightning can strike even when the rain feels far away—up to 10 miles. I wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before heading back out.
Tornado Preparedness
Best Shelter Locations
I always go to the lowest floor of a sturdy building during tornado warnings. Basements are safest if you have one.
If there’s no basement, I pick a small room on the lowest floor—closets, bathrooms, or hallways without windows work well.
Protection Actions
I cover myself with blankets, mattresses, or even a helmet to block flying debris. Crouching low and covering my head with my hands feels awkward but it works.
Mobile Home Safety
Mobile homes just aren’t safe in tornadoes, no matter how well they’re tied down. If I’m in one, I leave for a sturdier building or a storm shelter right away.
Warning Signs
Tornadoes sometimes sound like freight trains or even jet engines. Large hail can fall just before a tornado hits.
The sky might turn green or yellow before a tornado forms. When I hear a tornado warning, I take shelter immediately.
Winter Storm and Extreme Cold Protection
Vehicle Preparation
I pack my car with a winter kit—blankets, food, water, and warm clothes. Keeping the gas tank full helps prevent the fuel line from freezing.
Jumper cables, ice scrapers, and a bag of sand or kitty litter for traction are always in my trunk. I check tire pressure often since cold air makes it drop.
Frostbite Prevention
When wind chills dip below zero, exposed skin can freeze in just minutes. I make sure to cover every bit of skin and stay outside as little as possible.
Warning signs of frostbite include:
- Skin that feels cold and numb
- Red skin turning white or grayish
- Skin feeling hard or waxy
Home Heating Safety
Space heaters need at least three feet of space from anything flammable. I never use grills, camp stoves, or generators indoors for heat.
Fireplaces and wood stoves must be vented properly to avoid carbon monoxide. I always install battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors at home.
Flood Readiness and Response
Water Safety Rules
Just six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet. Two feet of water? That’s enough to float most cars right off the road.
Don’t drive through flooded roads, no matter how tempting or urgent it feels. You can’t really tell how deep the water is, so it’s better to turn around and find another way.
Home Protection
You can use sandbags to help redirect water away from buildings, but you’ll need to put them in place before the flooding starts. Fill them ahead of time—waiting until the last minute never works out.
If there’s a flood warning, move anything valuable to higher floors. Before you leave, unplug electrical appliances from the outlets.
After Flooding
Floodwater usually carries sewage, chemicals, and random debris that can make you seriously sick. Try to avoid touching any contaminated water if you can help it.
Let professional cleanup crews handle flooded basements or damaged electrical systems. Snap a few photos of the damage before you start cleaning up, since you’ll probably need them for insurance claims.