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Be the reason your community stays informed—give to local journalism now! Rivers across Iowa are swollen and swift with recent heavy rainfall. Some rivers are already dangerously high at or near flood stage, and more rivers could rise fast with chances of rain forecast later this week. "All paddlers, even experienced paddlers, should stay off of rain swollen rivers," said Todd Robertson, paddling instructor and Outreach Coordinator for Rivers Programs at the Iowa DNR. "If a river level is at the top or out of its bank, don't try to paddle on it." The DNR advises always knowing river conditions before going paddling. For the latest river conditions, visit the USGS site at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ia/nwis/current or contact local county conservation boards for updates. "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," said Robertson. "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." Visit the Iowa DNR's interactive paddler's map for updates on real-time hazards like downed trees and log jams, strainers and bridge construction. Pay attention to the dam warning signs and know where dams are located before heading out on the water. Bridge construction projects across Iowa could close some sections of rivers this summer. Iowa DNR encourages paddlers to stay alert when paddling on Iowa Rivers. Report potential hazards to John Wenck at John.Wenck@dnr.iowa.gov. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox.

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Paddlers Urged to Stay Off Rain Swollen Rivers