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Derecho

Archival Information

Disaster Declaration

 

State of Iowa Disaster Proclamation
Gov. Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation in response to a severe weather system that moved across Iowa and caused widespread damage on August 10. The proclamation activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program for qualifying residents, along with the Disaster Case Management Program for residents in Audubon, Benton, Boone, Dallas, Cedar, Clarke, Clinton, Greene, Grundy, Hardin, Iowa, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Madison, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story, Tama, and Washington counties. Learn more.

Presidential Disaster Declaration
On August 17, President Trump declared a major disaster exists in the State of Iowa and ordered Federal assistance to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms in August 10. Federal funding is available to State and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storm in the counties of Benton, Boone, Cedar, Clinton, Dallas, Jasper, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story, and Tama. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Media Releases & News Conferences

 

Individual Assistance


Individual FEMA Assistance
Residents of Linn County can now apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Individual Assistance Program, which provides disaster-affected homeowners, renters, and businesses with programs and services to maximize recovery, including assistance with housing, personal property replacement, medical expenses, and legal services.

Assistance can come in the form of grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated area (Linn County) can begin applying for assistance in the following ways:

  • Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
  • Download the FEMA Mobile App for smartphones.
  • Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585 // ViRS: 800-621-3362) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. CT, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Documents also may be submitted in any of the following ways:

  • Mail to: FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055.
  • Or fax to 800-827-8112.
  • Or submit them via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.

Linn County residents are no longer eligible to apply for the State Individual Assistance Program and should apply for the FEMA Individual Assistance Program.

Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans for Business and Residential
Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Iowa businesses and residents as a result of President Trump’s major disaster declaration. Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

Retired Public Updates

  • October 3, 2022 — The City’s stump grinding and site restoration program remains underway. The process is coordinated with the ReLeaf program and neighborhood construction projects. Workers are removing stumps along priority routes and in zones across the city. Residents can find a dashboard with a map of activity underway. Learn more.

  • April 26, 2022 — The City’s stump grinding and site restoration program is underway. The process coordinates with the ReLeaf program and neighborhood construction projects. Workers will remove stumps along priority routes and in work zones across the city. Residents can find a dashboard with a map of activity underway. Learn more.

  • Curbside Tree Debris Collection Completed (7/12/21)
    The City’s curbside tree debris collection program ended in early July 2021. Lingering debris is not allowed to remain permanently at the curb and is now subject to the City's Chapter 22 – Nuisances ordinance. The City of Cedar Rapids Solid Waste & Recycling division will utilize the nuisance abatement process to address reports of lingering derecho tree debris. To report a concern or with questions about this process, contact the division at 319-286-5897 or solid-waste-recycling@cedar-rapids.org.

  • (6/30/21) View Press Release

  • (6/17/21) View Press Release

  • (6/10/21) View Press Release

  • (5/29/21) View Press Release

  • (5/4/21) View Press Release

  • (4/27/21) View Press Release

  • (4/23/21) View Press Release

  • (4/20/21) View Press Release

  • (4/14/21) View Press Release

  • (3/19/21) View Press Release

  • (1/12/21) View Press Release

  • Garbage, Recycling & Yard Waste Collection (12/16/20) View Press Release
    Alley collection has been restored for all customers. Learn more.

  • (11/24/20) View Press Release

  • (11/12/20) View Press Release
  • Final Collection of Non-Tree Debris (10/30/20) View Press Release
    The final collection of non-tree-related debris will begin November 15. Areas collected on or after November 15 will have no further pickup of nonorganic (non-tree-related) debris. Collection of organic (tree) materials will continue.

  • (10/22/20) View Press Release

  • (10/7/20) View Press Release
  • Arborists Begin to Assess and Mark Right-of-Way Trees (9/15/20)
    Contracted certified arborists have begun to assess and mark public right-of-way trees for necessary trimming and removal based on damage that occurred as a result of the derecho. Learn more.

  • Private Tree Debris Update (9/13/20)
    A reminder that tree debris shall NOT be placed on park or trail property. Parks staff is working diligently to clear parks of debris so they may be reopened for the public. Debris dumped in parks slows the process and makes parks less safe for patrons.

    Additionally, residents are not able to report private trees that need to be removed to the City. Any concerns about private trees must be handled privately. A certified arborist can be hired to determine and document risk. Information on finding a certified arborist is available here. Report concerns with PUBLIC right-of-way trees here.

  • Burn Ban Remains in Effect Until Further Notice (9/11/20)
    Although the recent rainfall has saturated tree debris and vegetation in the short term, our region is still abnormally dry considering soil moisture conditions. Debris piles will likely dry out quickly with forecasted warm and dry conditions over the next week. The Fire Department typically sees the highest number of grass and brush fires in August and September because of trees losing their leaves and other vegetation going dormant. Fall weather is also accompanied by windy conditions that can increase the danger of rapidly spreading grass and brush fires.  The Fire Department is planning to keep the burn ban in effect until at least the second pass of organic debris removal so that the majority of the organic and drying debris is removed from neighborhoods, which will decrease the fire hazard.

  • Thank You! (9/11/20)
    We are extremely appreciative of assistance we received from many, including other government agencies and cities after the Derecho on August 10. Read more.

  • Request: Move Damaged Vehicles Parked Along Roadway (9/3/20)
    Many damaged vehicles parked alongside the road have not been moved since the August 10 Derecho. Vehicles that have not been moved can impede curbside debris collection. The Police Department is recommending that vehicle owners photograph damage to their vehicles, contact their insurance companies to advise them that the vehicle must be moved, then move the vehicle or have it towed. Vehicles parked more than 48 hours upon any street or in the area between the sidewalk and the curb or roadway is considered a street storage. These vehicles can be ticketed and/or towed to a storage place.

  • Public Tree Debris Drop-off Site Closure (9/3/20)
    The public tree debris drop-off site located at 1st Street NW and I Avenue has closed. Residents can leave tree debris curbside for free pick-up by the City, or take debris to the Linn County Solid Waste Agency at cost. Visit the Agency's website for locations, hours of operation, and other details.

  • Reduce Fire Risk with Tree Debris Piles (9/2/20)
    The Fire Department, in consultation with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and experts in wildland-urban interface, provide recommendations for limiting fire risk related to drying tree debris. Learn more.

  • FEMA Opens a Disaster Recovery Center (9/1/20)
    A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Linn County on Wednesday, September 2, to give survivors from the August 10 severe storm options to submit documents for their disaster assistance application. Learn more.

  • Neighborhood Resource Center Sites Closed (8/31/20)
    Neighborhood Resource Centers located at Metro High School, St. Paul’s Methodist Church, Ladd Library, Taylor Elementary School, and the Northwest Recreation Center have been closed. The sites were set up by the City of Cedar Rapids to provide emergency storm relief following the derecho. They provided meals, supplies, information, and access to mental health and legal services for two weeks following the storm. DHS will assist with DSNAP benefits for qualified individuals at the Ladd Library parking lot and US Cellular Center through Sunday, September 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

  • Free WiFi Locations  (8/31/20)
    Residents experiencing internet outages can access free WiFi now available at several locations throughout the Cedar Rapids metro area. See locations.

  • City of Cedar Rapids Business Storm Loss Questionnaire (8/27/20)
    The City’s Economic Development Division would like to hear the story about what types of storm losses and challenges had an impact on local business establishment or operation. The questionnaire is designed to help City staff identify needs in the post-disaster recovery process. Complete Questionnaire.

  • Veterans Memorial Coliseum Shelter Dates (8/27/20)
    The American Red Cross will close its shelter at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum (50 2nd Avenue Bridge) on Saturday, August 29 at 10 a.m. The Red Cross has been working with many community partners to help all remaining residents transition out of the shelter.

  • Recreational Vehicles Permitted to Serve as Temporary Housing (8/27/20)
    As the community continues to rebuild following the storm event on August 10, the City of Cedar Rapids has expanded the in-town use of recreational vehicles (RVs) to be used as a temporary housing unit for those displaced or completing home repairs. Learn more.

  • City Council Presentation by Incident Commander/Fire Chief Greg Smith (8/25/20)
    An update of current status, a brief overview of the FEMA National Incident Management System process, followed by a review of the City’s response to the disaster.  Download the presentation.

  • (8/24/20) Watch News Conference // View Press Release

  • Citywide Curfew Ends (8/24/20)
    The curfew is being rescinded effectively immediately. Electrical power has been restored to nearly all customers in Cedar Rapids and the curfew is no longer needed. We continue to ask residents to be vigilant during the evening and overnight hours when it is more difficult to see debris on sidewalks or roadways.

  • Burn Ban Remains in Effect (8/24/20)
    The burn ban will remain in effect indefinitely. With the elevated temperatures and tree debris drying out very quickly, there is an enhanced fire risk in our community.  Learn more.

  • Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans for Business and Residential (8/24/20)
    Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Iowa businesses and residents as a result of the Presidential Disaster Declaration. Learn more // Flyer: english | español

  • Hot Meals & Food Assistance (8/24/20)
    Hot meals continue through Tuesday, thanks to Operation BBQ Relief. Food pantry items remain available daily through the Neighborhood Resource Centers.

  • FEMA Individual Assistance (8/22/20)
    Residents of Linn County can now apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Individual Assistance Program, which provides disaster-affected homeowners, renters, and businesses with programs and services to maximize recovery, including assistance with housing, personal property replacement, medical expenses, and legal services. Learn more.

  • (8/21/20) Watch News Conference // View Press Release

  • Donate to Relief Efforts (8/21/20)
    Funds have been established through area nonprofit groups to provide disaster relief. Donate online today: United Way | Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation

  • Cooling Stations (8/21/20)
    With the hot weather predicted this weekend, a cooling station has been established at the US Cellular Center. The site will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily through Sunday, August 30. This location also doubles as a no-cost cell phone charging and Wi-Fi station. We encourage residents, especially those still without power, to utilize this cooling space for your health and safety.

  • Cleanup Assistance (8/21/20)
    Crisis Cleanup can connect residents with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and faith communities who may be able to assist with: cutting fallen trees; drywall, flooring and appliance removal; tarping roofs; and mold mitigation. The number to call for free Crisis Cleanup assistance is: 844-965-1386 or online at crisiscleanup.org

  • (8/20/20) Watch News Conference // View Press Release

  • URGENT Power Restoration Alert (8/20/20)
    As you’re clearing debris from your yards, please do not stack it in areas cleared by the National Guard. They are clearing these spaces to allow power utility trucks a place to safely locate and connect service, home-by-home on every street. Placing debris in these locations prevents the trucks from getting to your street. Find ongoing updates from Alliant Energy.

  • Home Permit Resources (8/20/20)
    Residents can find information on the permit process and a list of where to find reputable contractors on the City's website here. Download fact sheet: english | español | français | kirundi | kiswahili
  • Tree Emergency FAQ (8/20/20)
    A City tree emergency has been declared. Answers to your frequently asked questions about tree damage and debris removal are available here.

  • (8/19/20) Watch News Conference // View Press Release

  • Tree Debris Removal Map (8/19/20)
    A map of tree debris removal progress will be updated daily. The map will give residents a general idea of the status of their neighborhood. Find the map here.

  • Voluntary Odd/Even Parking Rule (8/19/20)
    We're encouraging residents to assist in debris cleanup by voluntarily following the odd/even parking rule. Help give our crews room! On EVEN number calendar days, park on the side of the street with EVEN-numbered homes. On ODD number days, park on the side with ODD-numbered homes. This applies only to residential areas where alternate side parking would not conflict with normal parking restrictions.

  • Guidance for Tree Examinations (8/19/20)
    Due to the severity of the storm and out of a concern for safety, the City's Forestry division is encouraging residents to pay special attention to their trees and ensure there are no structural concerns. Find updated guidance here.

  • (8/18/20) Watch News Conference // View Press Release

  • Disaster Declarations (8/18/20)
    State and Presidential Disaster Declarations have been issued, with varying levels of assistance available. Learn more.

  • Curfew Hours Updated (8/18/20)
    Starting tonight, the citywide curfew will be shortened. The curfew will be in effect between Midnight and 6 a.m. As power is restored in several locations, we want to ensure businesses can remain open to provide food and supplies to residents. Residents can travel to and from their employment during the curfew.

  • Garbage, Recycling & Yard Waste Collection Update (8/18/20)
    Garbage collection continues this week with an emphasis on removal of spoiled food. Anticipated dates for resumption of recycling and yard waste collection have been announced.

  • Home Repair Permits (8/18/20)
    All contractors doing work locally are required to be licensed and registered through the State of Iowa. The Building Services Department is prepared to assist residents in connecting with an Iowa-licensed contractor.

  • Tree Debris Removal (8/18/20)
    On Monday, August 17, crews collected over 2,000 truckloads of debris, bringing our total to 7,584 loads. Starting tomorrow, residents are encouraged to voluntarily follow the odd/even parking rule. On odd calendar days, park on the side of the street with odd-numbered houses. On even calendar days, park on the side of the street with even-numbered houses.

  • Neighborhood Resource Center Update (8/18/20)
    The Neighborhood Resource Center, previously located at the ROC Center, 1202 10th Street SE, has been moved to Metro High School, 1212 7th St SE. The site was relocated due to heavy congestion in the ROC Center area which created concerns about resident safety.

  • Food Locations Updated (8/18/20)
    Drive-thru assistance pods previously located at Kingston Stadium, St. Mark's Lutheran Church, and Marion Walmart have been closed. Food assistance remains available daily at the Neighborhood Resource Centers, as well as the Operation BBQ Relief distribution sites.

  • (8/17/20) News Conference: Part 1 | Part 2 // View Press Release

  • BURN BAN (8/17/20): A burn ban has been added to the City of Cedar Rapids’ Emergency Proclamation. All outdoor recreational fires are prohibited, with some provisions to allow for cooking fires.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/16/20)
    REMINDER: A city-wide curfew remains in effect from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. until further notice.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/16/20)
    We just learned the Jane Boyd Community House will NOT be used as a Neighborhood Resource Center location. Instead, visit the ROC Center at 1202 10th Street SE

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/16/20)
    TRANSIT SERVICE RESUMES Monday, August 17. Buses may be delayed. Find your bus using our bus tracker: View Link

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/16/20)
    Garbage ONLY collection follows regular weekday schedule this week. Place carts at the street NOT in the alley. Double bag spoiled food & set beside cart.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/16/20)
    Hot meals will be served daily from Noon-2 pm and 5-7 pm thanks to the generosity of Operation BBQ Relief with the support of several Corridor area restaurants. Five hundred meals will be available at both lunch and dinner for those in need at the following locations: - Downtown Public Library (450 5th Avenue SE) - Ladd Library (3750 Williams Blvd SW) - NW Recreation Center (1340 11th Street NW) - Jane Boyd Community House (943 14th Ave SE) - Taylor Elementary School (720 7th Avenue SW) - Roosevelt Middle School (300 13th Street NW) - Grant Elementary School (254 Outlook Drive SW) - Johnson STEAM Academy (355 18th Street SE) - Nixon Elementary School (200 Nixon Drive, Hiawatha) - Jefferson School (1243 20th Street SW) - Polk Alternative Education Center (1500 B Avenue NE)

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/16/20)
    Starting Monday, August 17, Neighborhood Resource Centers will be set up at five sites throughout Cedar Rapids to consolidate resident services. Locations include: - Ladd Library (3750 Williams Blvd SW) - Northwest Recreation Center (1340 11th St NW - parking lot) - St. Paul’s Methodist Church (1340 3rd Ave SE) - Jane Boyd Community House (943 14th Ave SE - parking lot) - Taylor Elementary School (720 7th Ave SW) The centers will operate from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily and be staffed with City employees and volunteers. Initially, the sites will provide food and daily updates on services for residents. Additional resources will continue to be added including supplies for clean-up, legal and mental health assistance. The sites are coordinated by Linn Area Partners Active in Disaster (LAPAID) organizations. Services will transition as additional resident needs are assessed.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/15/20)
    Cedar Rapids Alert: Please check on neighbors, especially senior citizens. Pass along information, and make sure they have food and are safe.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/14/20)
    Cedar Rapids Alert: Sirens will be activated if storms tonight produce winds of 40 mph or more due to tree debris and residents without power.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/14/20)
    Free hot dog, chip, granola bar, and water meal at Hy-Vee on 1st Ave & 16th Street NE. Now until food is gone.

  • (8/14/20) Watch News Conference

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/14/20)
    Cedar Rapids update information will be broadcast daily from WMT 600 AM at 7:10 am -- rebroadcast at 8:35 am -- and from Z102.9 at 7:30 am.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/13/20)
    Charging stations will open tomorrow in Cedar Rapids for those who need a place to go to charge MEDICAL EQUIPMENT. Charging locations will be open 8a-5p at Downtown Library (5th Ave & 5th St lot), Twin Pines Golf Course parking lot, Northwest Recreation Center parking lot.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/13/20)
    UPDATED TIMES: HACAP/Hy-Vee will provide charging stations, food, water today 11am near Jane Boyd 1pm Taylor Neighborhood 3pm LADD Library. City staff on hand.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/13/20)
    Hy-Vee will provide water and food distribution today 11 am near Jane Boyd 12 pm Taylor Neighborhood 2 pm LADD Library City staff will be on hand.

  • (8/13/20) Watch News Conference

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/13/20)
    Info will be broadcast daily on Z102.9 at 7:30 am and WMT 600 AM at 7:10 am and rebroadcast at 8:35 am. Today hear about debris clean up efforts underway

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/12/20)
    REMINDER: A city-wide curfew remains in effect from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. until further notice. Police officers will be patrolling neighborhoods. We are asking for residents to stay at home for their safety so streets can be cleared of debris and fallen utilities.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/12/20)
    The City is working with multiple partner agencies to identify shelter locations, volunteer coordination, and food. Additional information will be released as details are finalized. Check www.cedar-rapids.org for updates.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/12/20)
    Tree debris pickup is underway. Crews are removing whatever they can from the public right-of-way, and will return multiple times to each property.

  • (8/12/20) View Press Release

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/12/20)
    Garbage/recycling/yard waste collection is suspended Wednesday so operators can assist in debris removal from streets. Collection of GARBAGE CARTS ONLY will begin on Thursday for customers with Tuesday & Wednesday collection. Thursday & Friday customers will be collected Friday. We will do our best to navigate to your street, but if we cannot get there tomorrow or Friday, we will try again next week. Carts will be collected from the street in front of your house ONLY and NOT the alley. Do not park in front of carts. If there is room, place carts behind the curb. If there is not room, place carts in the street. If necessary, work with neighbors to create a cart collection area. Leave AT LEAST 3 FEET of space between carts and other objects. Extra bags of spoiled food that don't fit in your cart must be double bagged and set beside your GARBY cart. Extra garbage stickers are not required for extra bags of spoiled food. Stickers are required for extra bags of regular non-food garbage. Extra garbage bags must weigh 40 pounds or less. More info: http://www.cedar-rapids.org/news_detail_T6_R1346.php

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/11/20)
    REMINDER: A city-wide curfew remains in effect from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. until further notice. Police officers will be patrolling neighborhoods. We are asking for residents to stay at home for their safety so streets can be cleared of debris and fallen utilities.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/11/20)
    RUMOR CONTROL: Cedar Rapids water remains available and safe to drink.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/11/20)
    Transit service has been suspended until further notice.

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/11/20)
    Traffic signals have sustained heavy damage. Be aware of signs and traffic signals that may be down. Treat intersections as all-way stops where this occurs. The City will continue to issue additional critical information as connectivity allows.

  • (8/11/20) View Press Release

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/11/20)
    The City continues to respond to widespread damage, with priority on life safety issues. Please only call 911 for life-threatening situations. Main roads are being cleared of debris first, followed by collector streets and residential neighborhoods. If possible, move cars off the streets. Debris: Cut branches into sections <10’ long. Large trunks should be halved or quartered. Only stack debris in the right of way (between street and sidewalk)

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/10/20)
    Citywide curfew issued from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting tonight and continuing until further notice.
  • (8/10/20) View Press Release #1, Release #2

  • CR NEWS NOW ALERT (8/10/20)
    The City is responding to reports of widespread storm damage after a powerful thunderstorm. Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/cr-tree-8-10-20

    There is both widespread and significant damage throughout Cedar Rapids from the severe thunderstorms that moved through the metro area between 12:30-1:30 p.m. There is property damage to both homes and businesses in all parts of the city. Trees and power lines are down throughout the city, making many major roads impassable. For your safety, we ask that you stay home if you can safely do so. Call 911 only for life-threatening situations like someone is injured, there is a fire, or other threat to life. The Police Department and Fire Department have called in emergency staffing so that public safety personnel can respond to life-threatening emergencies. The City of Cedar Rapids has enacted its Incident Management Team and we will provide further updates as they become available.
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