Flood Control Road and Trail Closures

Des Moines, Iowa - Saturday, July 4, 2026 - Due to recent rainfall, the City of Des Moines is experiencing flooding in some areas, specifically on the city's east side near Fourmile Creek. Residents and visitors should expect road and trail closures until water levels fall.

Des Moines Police and Fire personnel have been actively assisting residents during recent flooding. If you witness someone stranded in flood waters, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Des Moines Public Works and Des Moines Parks and Recreation are monitoring river levels closely. The following is a summary of the current Raccoon River and Des Moines River levels along with associated road and trail closures.

River and Stream Elevations Updated 7/4/26 3:30 p.m.

• The current level of Fourmile Creek (flood stage 12.50')* is at 14.50' but is slowly receding.

The flood stage for each river, stream or creek is determined using historical data from fixed gauge readings where minor flooding (minimal or no property damage) began in the past. For additional information, visit RiverGages.DSM.city.

Road Closures Updated 7/4/26 3:00 p.m.

• E Douglas Ave., from E 33rd St. to Kennedy Ave.
• Hubbell Ave., from E 33rd St. to Euclid Ave.
• Williams St., from Mattern Ave. to University Ave.
• Scott Ave., from SE 33rd St. to eastern City limits
• Additional closures are possible, please do not attempt to pass barricades or flooded roadways

Trail Closures Updated 7/3/26 9:40 a.m.

• Walnut Creek (at Grand Avenue)
• Gay Lea Wilson (Sargent Park to Williams Street)

Turn Around, Don't Drown

Closure signs and barricades have been placed at each closure for your protection. Do not attempt to go around barriers and travel through flood water.

Barriers will remain in place until flood water is off the road/trail, damage is assessed, repairs are made, and cleanup has been completed.

For more information, visit DSM.city/closures, call the 24-hour Des Moines Public Works Call Center at (515) 283-4950, or text DSMTRAILS to 84483to receive trail updates from Des Moines Parks and Recreation.

Contact
Peter Zemansky
Communications Manager, City Manager's Office
(515) 210-6586
[email protected]

About the City of Des Moines

The City of Des Moines is Iowa's capital, and our 17 departments serve more than 214,000 residents and 46 neighborhood associations. Des Moines is a leader in sustainability and provides its residents with vibrant neighborhoods, an active downtown, and abundant leisure opportunities.

Des Moines continuously improves neighborhoods, public safety, and quality of life by offering exceptional city services and reliable infrastructure while fostering an involved and compassionate community for all who visit and live there. Visit DSM.city, Facebook, and Twitter for more information.