FEMA Obligates over $22 Million to Buyout Flood Damaged Homes in Rock Valley, Iowa

KANSAS CITY, MO -Stemming from the historic flooding that took place in Northwest Iowa during the summer of 2024, FEMA has obligated over $22 million to acquire flood damaged homes in Rock Valley, Iowa. The catastrophic flooding resulted in a Major Presidential Disaster Declaration (DR-4796), with hundreds of homes deemed uninhabitable.

"This is great news for the community of Rock Valley and the families that were affected by the 2024 flooding," FEMA Region 7 Acting Administrator, Jay Van Der Werff said. "This acquisition project was made possible through strong partnerships between Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and the local officials in Rock Valley, IA."

The $22 million is available through FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). Along with funding from the Public Assistance (PA) program, these grants will fund the acquisition and demolition of 123 residential properties damaged as a result of the 2024 flooding. To eliminate the potential for future flood damage at these properties, the City of Rock Valley will purchase the properties, demolish the existing structures, and utilize the area as open space.

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FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.