Governor Reynolds Issues Disaster Proclamation for Five Iowa Counties After Severe Weather

DES MOINES, Iowa (April 20, 2026) — Governor Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation for five Iowa counties following severe weather that began April 13 and continues to impact parts of the state.

The proclamation covers Carroll, Crawford, Grundy, Harrison, and Washington counties, enabling state resources to be mobilized to assist with response and recovery efforts. It also activates two key assistance programs aimed at helping affected residents: the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy Program.

The governor’s order took effect immediately and will remain in place for 30 days unless it is extended or terminated earlier.

Under the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program, eligible households can receive up to $7,000 in aid. The program is available to residents with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and can be used for expenses such as home or vehicle repairs, replacement of personal property or food, and temporary housing. Applicants seeking reimbursement must provide original receipts for storm-related costs.

In addition, the Disaster Case Advocacy Program offers support to individuals facing serious hardship, injury, or other disaster-related challenges. Case advocates work directly with residents to develop recovery plans and connect them with available services and resources. Unlike the grant program, there are no income requirements for participation. This program will remain open for 180 days from the date of the proclamation.

Residents in affected counties can access the Disaster Assistance Request Form and application instructions through the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management website.

State officials encourage Iowans to visit the department’s website for more information on available disaster relief programs. Additional resources on disaster preparedness and the types of emergencies that can occur in Iowa are available through the state’s Ready Iowa initiative.

Authorities continue to monitor conditions as recovery efforts get underway across the impacted areas.