Hawarden, Iowa – Volunteers in Hawarden, Iowa, are working tirelessly to stack sandbags in response to the devastating flooding from the Big Sioux River. The Midwest region has been hit hard by “catastrophic” flash flooding, with areas in New Mexico, Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota facing significant challenges this weekend.
The extreme weather conditions have been amplified by a record-setting heat wave sweeping across the United States. Over 100 million people have been under heat alerts, with temperatures soaring 10 to 15 degrees above average in the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic regions. The National Weather Service has warned of record high temperatures and possible triple-digit readings in states like California, Arizona, and Utah.
In Iowa, Governor Kim Reynolds has declared a disaster proclamation for 21 counties in the northwest area of the state. Residents in Rock Valley have been evacuated due to the high floodwaters, and emergency personnel have been responding to numerous calls for assistance. Similarly, in South Dakota, rising water levels have prompted nine rescues in Sioux Falls, with the city’s emergency manager reporting multiple incidents of stranded drivers and stalled vehicles.
Minnesota is also facing flood warnings, with Governor Tim Walz authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide support for emergency flood operations. The state has experienced intense rainfall leading to uncontrollable water levels in lakes, prompting evacuations and significant damage to property in various communities.
In New Mexico, the Salt and South Fork Fires have burned over 24,200 acres, resulting in destruction and evacuations in the mountain village of Ruidoso. Residents will be allowed to return to their homes, but precautions are advised due to the potential for flooding and mudslides in the burn scars.
The threat of severe storms and flash flooding extends into New England and the Mid-Atlantic regions, with the National Weather Service issuing warnings for damaging winds, tornadoes, and isolated hail. Monsoon-like conditions in the Four Corners region are also expected to bring the risk of isolated flash flooding, further adding to the challenges faced by communities across the country.