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Flood warning issued as Raccoon River, Walnut Creek reach their banks
By Brandi D. Addison and Brian Smith Updated Sept. 15, 2026, 2:59 p.m. CT
After days of heavy rain, the National Weather Service is warning of minor river flooding in Des Moines.
The weather service issued a flood warning for Polk County from Tuesday afternoon until Wednesday evening for concerns of flooding along the Raccoon River from Walnut Creek to the Des Moines River and for Walnut Creek in Clive.
"Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads," the NWS warned, adding that most flood deaths occur in vehicles.
Des Moines area weather radar
How much flooding is expected in the Raccoon River?
As of 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, the Raccoon River at Fleur Drive was at its flood stage of 12 feet and rising.
The river is expected to crest at 14.3 feet around midnight Wednesday and fall below flood stage on Wednesday afternoon.
Water will begin to affect low-lying areas of Water Works Park once the river reaches 13.5 feet.
How much flooding is expected along Walnut Creek?
Walnut Creek was nearing its flood stage of 9 feet as of 2 p.m. Tuesday.
It is expected to crest at 9.1 feet late Tuesday afternoon.
Clive closes road, trail due to flooding
A portion of Swanson Boulevard in Clive is closed due to flooding from Walnut Creek. The road is closed from 88th Street to 94th Street.
The Greenbelt Trail is also closed between Country Club Boulevard and 73rd Street due to flooding and storm debris.
What to do during a flood warning
- If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Use a battery-powered radio or TV to get the latest emergency information.
- Do not walk through floodwater — just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
- Turn around, don't drown: Never drive into a flooded street. Two feet of moving water can sweep away a car, and roads may be washed out.
- Watch for fire hazards.
- Move to higher ground.
- Stay alert and keep weather notifications on.
- Keep children away from floodwaters — they can hide rocks, trees, and debris.
