The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is warning paddlers to stay off swollen rivers across the state, citing dangerous conditions following recent heavy rainfall. Many rivers are running high and swift, with some near or at flood stage, and more rain is forecasted. Todd Robertson, paddling instructor and outreach coordinator for the Iowa DNR, emphasized that even experienced paddlers should avoid flooded waterways. He says, “Swollen rivers are super powerful with unpredictable current and tons of wood or branch piles coming downstream that can pull a paddler under or pin them underwater. These deadly hazards are usually found on outside river bends where currents are strongest, but can be found anywhere on rivers, including at the base of bridge piers.” Paddlers are urged to check real-time conditions and consult the DNR’s interactive paddler’s map. Links to those resources are included below.
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Iowa water conditions – USGS Water Data for the Nation
