Iowa Governor Declares Disaster in Five Counties After Severe Storms

Proclamation activates aid programs for impacted residents in eastern Iowa

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of grey, blue, and green, with a dramatic, cloud-filled sky dominating the frame and casting a shadow over a small town or rural scene below, conveying the overwhelming power of the natural forces at play.A powerful storm system sweeps across the Iowa countryside, underscoring the state's need for robust disaster response and recovery efforts.Des Moines Today

Gov. Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation for five Iowa counties, including the eastern counties of Buchanan and Henry, following severe storms that struck the state on Tuesday. The proclamation authorizes state resources to be used in the response and activates two assistance programs - the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy Program - to help affected families and individuals.

Why it matters

Severe weather events can cause significant damage and disruption to communities, and the governor's disaster declaration unlocks critical state resources and aid programs to support recovery efforts. The inclusion of eastern Iowa counties highlights the widespread impact of the storms across the state.

The details

The disaster proclamation covers Buchanan, Clay, Henry, Palo Alto and Plymouth counties. The Individual Assistance Grant Program offers up to $7,000 in grants for low-income families to cover expenses like car repairs, food, and temporary housing. The Disaster Case Advocacy Program provides case management services to help individuals and households navigate the recovery process and access available resources.

  • The severe storms struck Iowa on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
  • Gov. Reynolds issued the disaster proclamation on April 15, 2026.
  • The proclamation and assistance programs will remain in effect for 30 days.

The players

Gov. Kim Reynolds

The Governor of Iowa who issued the disaster proclamation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Over the next 30 days, state and local officials will work to assess the full extent of the damage and coordinate the distribution of aid and resources to the impacted counties.

The takeaway

The governor's swift action in declaring a disaster and activating emergency assistance programs demonstrates the state's commitment to supporting communities affected by severe weather events and ensuring residents have access to the resources they need to recover.