Gov. Terry Branstad has verbally declared a disaster proclamation for three northeast Iowa counties being hit hard by flooding.

Iowa's top elected official made the declaration for Butler, Chickasaw and Floyd counties, while indicating that additional counties would likely be added to the proclamation. A formal proclamation is expected from the Governor in the days ahead.

Chris Christie in Iowa for Gov. Branstad's Birthday Bash
Courtesy: Steve Pope - Getty Images
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“We’ve been closely monitoring flooding that will significantly impact a number of counties,” Branstad said. “The state of Iowa stands ready to assist all local governments as they respond to this threat. We are already providing a number of flood mitigation tools to assist and expect more in the coming days."

A press released from Branstad's office listed a summary of state efforts currently underway in the flooded areas:

  • Provided over 30,000 sandbags (4 dump truck loads of sand)
  • Deployed 8 water pumps
  • Placed 14 pallets of flood barriers, equal to 1,200 linear feet
  • Placed 50 traffic barricades
  • Pre-staged flood barriers
  • Provided assistance to local law enforcement

"Iowans should take the necessary precautions to remain safe until the flooding has receded,” Branstad said.

Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds added, "I’ve been humbled by the response of friends and neighbors, law enforcement, emergency responders, non-profits and local governments to come together during challenging times like these. The governor and I stand ready to assist the citizens of Iowa until the flooding has diminished and the recovery after.”

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