The Iowa Department of Transportation closed northbound lanes of Interstate 35 from Ankeny to Elkhart on Friday, July 3, 2026.
The closure followed overnight torrential rain that triggered severe flash flooding across the region.
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According to reports from KCCI, parts of Ankeny, northern Polk County, and southern Story County received 6 to 8 inches of rainfall within a 24-hour period.
Some areas recorded even higher totals.
The intense downpour caused localized power outages and rising home flooding risks. Authorities diverted highway traffic into a detour.
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Local waterways, including rivers and creeks in Polk and Jasper counties, swelled rapidly. Fourmile Creek hit its official flood stage and neared its morning crest.
As reported by KWWL, a broader flood watch remained in effect through the night for regions along and north of Highway 30 near Cedar Rapids.
Flash flooding risks persist into Friday night.
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A Level 2 out of 5 severe weather risk brings a 70% chance of additional storms, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall.
