Press Release Archive
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Governor Culver Urges Iowans To Use Caution In Coming Days
Emergency Operations Center, State Agencies on alert to address any weather-related issues
DES MOINES – Today, Governor Chet Culver urged Iowans to use caution in the coming days as more rain and severe weather is expected to move across the state.
“As Iowans continue to recover from the effects of last week’s severe weather, the National Weather Service is forecasting even more rain and storms for our state over the next 48 to 72 hours,” said Governor Culver. “I encourage Iowans to take steps now to plan for any eventuality. Know where to go if a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning has been issued for your area. And be prepared to move if you live in a flood-prone area. Taking these simple steps now will help protect the lives of you and your loved ones.”
The National Weather Service has predicted that severe storms are possible over the next two days throughout the state of Iowa. Iowans should pay attention to the television and radio for the latest severe weather watches and warnings.
In addition, with heavy rain predicted to fall on already saturated ground, the threat for flash flooding remains high. Iowans should know the best evacuation route should their house be threatened by rising flood waters. To find out more about flood and severe weather preparedness, visit the Iowa Homeland Security website at www.iowahomelandsecurity.org and click on “Flooding Facts.”
Governor Culver continues to monitor the response to last week’s severe weather, and is being updated on the current severe weather situation by state homeland security officials. He has activated the State Emergency Operations Center in preparation for any severe weather that may strike the state. In addition, state resources from Iowa Homeland Security, the Department of Transportation, the Iowa State Patrol and the Iowa National Guard have been activated and are on standby to address any weather-related issues.
“Many communities have already been affected by severe weather this year,” said the Governor. “I have traveled to northeast Iowa twice in the last week, and the Lt. Governor traveled to Attica, to survey storm damage. In each community we visited, we were struck by the resilience and optimism of Iowans. State government has been there to help those affected, and we stand ready to help once again should severe weather move through our state again.”