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9/7/2011 1:30 pm
Missouri River
Flood Response
Information and resources for residents of affected areas
Airport Information
Omaha’s airport is open and operating as normal. They do not anticipate any problems with airport operations.
The flooding is having no impact on airline schedules. If there is any change in status at the airport, public
announcements would be made and the information would be available on our website, www.flyoma.com.
There you can click on the red button which says ―Latest Missouri River Flood Information.‖ All roads leading
to the airport and airport-operated parking lots are open at this time.
Amtrak Information
Amtrak service for the full California Zephyr route has been suspended since Aug. 26, when a portion of a
construction crane at a grain elevator obstructed the BNSF Railway Co., tracks and caused an Amtrak train to
become disabled near Benkelman, Neb. That suspension allowed Amtrak to deploy equipment and crews to
resume this limited California Zephyr service.Because of temporary levees built over BNSF Railway Co. tracks
to help protect the cities of Omaha and Bellevue, Neb., the Amtrak California Zephyr will detour between
Lincoln, Neb., and Creston, Iowa. and will not directly serve Omaha. Alternate transportation will be provided
between Lincoln and Omaha (eastbound from the San Francisco Bay, Train 6) and between Creston and
Omaha (westbound from Chicago, Train 5).
Animal Shelter
Remember that vaccinations must be up to date.
Nebraska and Iowa
Hooves and Paws Rescue, helping owners place horses, dogs and cats place their animals in temporary foster
care due to flooding; (712) 527-3721 or (712) 355-3721, calls returned within 24 hours
Douglas County
In the event of an evacuation, the Nebraska Humane Society will be present at reception areas to assist you
with sheltering your pet. The Nebraska Humane Society has prepared a guide for pet owners during an
evacuation – visit www.nehumanesociety.org and click on ―Disaster Planning‖ on the front page.
Mills County
Feline Friends (outdoor cats) – (402) 778-1111
Catnip and Tails - (Cats) – (712) 314-7669
Montgomery County Animal Rescue – Jan Black – cats/dogs – (712) 370-0336
Glenwood Veterinarian Clinic (712) 527-9454
Jan Faraci, large animals (712) 526-2850
Pam Westfall, 8 acres (712) 527-9282
Kim Collier, large animals, birds, etc. (712) 215-5656
Deb Patterson (712) 527-9383
Nancy Henggeler, pets (712) 462-4447
Amy Johnson, Red Oak (712) 621-5437
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
Kate Kaminsky – has land, bring fence or whatever is needed and care for animals yourself (712) 326-8923
Chris Brown, Red Oak – cattle; yard charge (712) 621-5131
Nebraska Humane Society – (402) 444-7800. They will hold each animal for up to 7 days, with a fee of $5 per
day per animal
The Loess Hills Humane Society has been temporarily relocated due to potential flooding. Animals have been
moved to Montgomery County Rescue.
Pottawattamie County
The Pottawattamie County Animal Shelter has moved out of Council Bluffs to a temporary location and will
house animals at the Secondary Roads Department's shop in Underwood, Iowa. Administration of the animal
shelter also has moved to Underwood, but the shelter has the same telephone number, (712) 366-0152.
Boxes
Callers who are requesting boxes due to the floods can call Salvation Army Disaster Services at (402) 510-
4403.
Business Assistance
Douglas County, Sarpy County
The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce is working with businesses in the area that have been affected by
the floods. If your business is searching for a temporary location or storage space, please contact Larry
Gomez (402) 978-7925 or Mike Bruening (402) 978-7935.
Pottawattamie County
The Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce is working with businesses in the affected areas. If your
business is searching for a temporary location, please see the website. Please do not call the office.
http://www.councilbluffsiowa.com/economic_development/sites_buildings.asp
Cass County (IA), Fremont County, Harrison County, Mills County, Page County, Pottawattamie County
The Iowa Western Community College Small Business Development Center is part of a state wide system
providing free services for small businesses and startups in Iowa. As with all of their consulting services, there
is no charge for the confidential assistance provided to prepare for disasters as well as assistance in the
aftermath of a disaster. Call (712) 325-3350 or (712) 256-6552.
Nebraska
The University of Nebraska at Omaha is offering resources and consulting to small businesses affected by
flooding through its Nebraska Business Development Center. Small businesses in danger of flood damage can
go to http://nbdc.unomaha.edu/about/floods.cfm, for more information.
Iowa
Small, non-farm businesses in 14 Iowa counties are eligible to apply for low interest disaster loans from the U.
S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Eligible primary counties are Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Monona,
Pottawattamie and Woodbury; eligible neighboring counties are Cass, Cherokee, Crawford, Ida, Montgomery,
Page, Plymouth and Shelby.
SBA eligibility covers both the flood-related economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and
ranchers businesses directly impacted by the disaster. Non-farm businesses, agricultural cooperatives, small
businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private, non-profit organizations may qualify for Economic Injury
Disaster Loans (EIDLs). Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster
assistance. These enterprises should contact the Farm Services Agency (FSA) about the U. S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration.
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
The deadline to apply for these loans is March 8, 2012. Applicants may apply online via SBA’s secure website
at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Disaster loan information and application forms are also available from
SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling SBA toll-free at 800-659-2955, e-mailing
disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.
Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877-8339.
Cleanup Kits
Nebraska and Iowa
Individuals needing to clean up their homes after flood waters recede may obtain a kit from The Salvation Army
Lied Renaissance Center, 3612 Cuming, Mon-Fri 8:30 am- 4:30 pm or call in advance, (402) 898-5942.
Nebraska
The American Red Cross will be distributing clean up kits and other supplies in Nebraska in the following
counties: Burt County, Washington County, Douglas County and Sarpy County
September 7, 2011
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Sarpy/Cass County Bellevue Fire Department Training Site 3100 Cornhusker Road, Bellevue, NE
(Sarpy and Cass Counties will share the same distribution site)
For more information contact Dena Howard at: 402-305-1022.
Pottawattamie County
First Baptist Church in Council Bluffs has flood clean up buckets for distribution - (712) 322-2569.
Code Red Alert System
Code Red is an additional emergency notification system that will be important for communication during this
time. Residents are encouraged to sign up online:
Fremont County: www.co.fremont.ia.us (click on Emergency Management)
Mills County: www.millscoia.us
Pottawattamie County: www.pottcounty.com
Community Meetings
UNL Extension has planned a Flood Recovery Resource Fair for residents and business owners who will be
returning to flood-damaged properties. The open house will be from 3 pm-7 pm on September 9 at the City
Auditorium, 1315 K Street, Tekamah. For more information visit http://flood.unl.edu.
Consumer Protection
Homeowners and businesses that have experienced flooding are asked to remain vigilant when it comes to
hiring services or purchasing goods. For tips on avoiding home repair scams, please visit the Nebraska Better
Business Bureau’s website at www.nebraska.bbb.org.or the Attorney General’s website at www.ago.ne.gov. If
you feel you have been a victim of a clean-up or home improvement scam, contact the Attorney General’s
Consumer Protection Division at (800) 727-6432.
Damage Reports
Douglas County
Property damage reports should be called in to 2-1-1 or (402) 444-6666. This information will be used for the
Governor to obtain the proclamation for individual assistance.
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
Fremont County
Damage reports should be called in to (712) 374-3355. This is for both businesses and residences. This
information will be used for the Governor to obtain the proclamation for individual assistance. The office is
open from 8 am-5 pm. Provide your name, address of the property and your contact number. If no answer you
can leave the information on the answering machine
Mills County
Mills County is taking immediate action to be included in the State of Iowa appeal of the FEMA Personal
Assistance Application. It is critical that flood damage to area homes be reported to Mills County as soon as
possible. Residents can report by calling the Flood Hotline at 712-527-4231 and providing updated damage
information or by completing the form available on the website at www.millscountyflood.org. Please take
action today.
Pottawattamie County
If your home or business has been damaged by flood waters, you have been evacuated, or your
home/business has ground water into your structure please register your damage at www.pottcounty.com. If
you do not have internet access, call the flood hotline to report your damage/evacuation, (712) 328-4672.
Iowa (other than Pottawattamie, Mills, and Fremont Counties)
The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division is asking residents and businesses in
counties along the Missouri River to begin estimating the amount of flood damage to their property. Damage
information may be used to assist in the preparation of a request for federal disaster aid.
Flood-impacted residents in Woodbury, Monona, Harrison, Pottawattamie, Mills and Fremont counties, are
asked to contact the Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Callers to the Iowa Concern Hotline should be prepared to provide information and answers to the following
questions:
Name
Current address and phone number
Address of flood-affected home or business
Is this a rental property?
Is this a primary or vacation home?
Is the business currently open or closed due to flooding?
Have you lost your job because of flooding?
Do you have flood insurance?
How many floors are flooded, including the basement?
How deep is the water on the topmost floor that is flooded?
Flood damage to farm residences may be reported to the Iowa Concern Hotline. Damage to other agricultural
buildings, equipment and property should be reported to the local office of the Farm Service Agency.
Nebraska
State officials are seeking information from anyone affected by flooding across Nebraska in order to begin
assessing personal and business damages or losses due to flooding. Information will be used to determine
whether the state meets federal thresholds for individual assistance.
Preliminary Individual Assessment information was received by the Flood Hotline staff and that information will
be used in the initial assessment of damages affecting individual homes and property. Residents who did not
submit preliminary flood reports can still contact the NEMA hotline at (855) 211-2453, Monday-Friday 8 am-5
pm Central Time. Property reports can also be submitted online at: http://www.nema.ne.gov/newsroom/home-
damage-contact.html.
Flooded homes are dangerous. Do not go back to a damaged building to assess damage for a NEMA
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requested report. While NEMA wants to hear from people regarding their property damage caused by severe
thunderstorms and flooding, safety should be the first priority. Information you give to the hotline is preliminary
and will not be the determining factor in whether you receive assistance.
Dirt or Berm Resources
Mills County
Individuals with questions should call the Mills County Engineer’s Office at (712) 527-4873. No permits are
required. Do not block drainage ditches or place dirt on public property. Dirt may be available from
Thieschafer (712) 366-9661 or Stroud (712) 527-5249.
Donations
Donations of items such as clothing, furniture, etc, are NOT needed at this time. Unsolicited donations
cause additional staffing and storage problems that local officials do not have the resources to manage.
Salvation Army is currently collecting cleaning supplies to distribute to those whose homes have been
impacted by the flood. Items most needed include bottled water, Gatorade, rubber gloves, buckets,
disinfectant, brushes, brooms, mops and safety goggles. Donations may be dropped off at any Omaha Fire
Department Fire Station.
Supplies for clean-up kits may also be dropped off at:
Action News 3, 10714 Mockingbird Drive; Journal Broadcast Radio, 5030 N. 72 Street;
The Salvation Army, 3612 Cuming Street
Or any of the CBSHOME Real Estate locations below:
14769 California Street 11511 South 42nd Street, Suite 106
11213 Davenport Street 16949 Lakeside Hills Plaza
3506 North 147 Street, Suite 200 3090 Twin Creek Drive, Bellevue
12112 Pacific Street 13110 West Dodge Road
Note: Donation drop off hours at CBSHOME Real Estate locations: Monday- Friday, 8 am-5 pm and Saturday
and Sunday, 10 am-3 pm.
Nebraska and Iowa
Please do not send any unsolicited items. Individuals wishing to donate items may register at
www.volunteersolutions.org/omaha. Click ―Product/Service Donations‖ at the top of the page. You can then
view a list of needs that has been posted by agencies, or if you have an unsolicited item to donate you can
click the ―Donate an Item‖ Link to post the available item. Only agencies will be able to view the information
you provide, and if your product or service is needed they will contact you directly.
Mills County
The Mills County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Omaha Community Foundation, has established
the Mills County Flood Fund. All that’s needed is cash or a check of any amount made out to the Mills County
Flood Fund, your name and address. Drop off your donation at one of the bank locations below:
First National Bank - Glenwood
Great Western Bank - Glenwood
Glenwood State Bank – Glenwood and Pacific Junction State Bank – Emerson
Malvern Trust & Savings Bank - Malvern
Or mail to: Mills County Flood Fund, 302 South 36th Street, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68131.
If you wish to make an online donation, go to http://omahafoundation.org/givenow and select ―Mills County
Flood Fund‖ from the dropdown list
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
Pottawattamie County
Pottawattamie County Community Foundation is accepting monetary donations to their Disaster Relief Fund.
Visit www.ourpccf.org or call (712) 256-7007 for information.
Monetary donations may be made to reputable non-government agencies that provide disaster services such
as the American Red Cross (Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS; people can also text the word
―REDCROSS‖ to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to the American Red Cross,
P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.), The Salvation Army, United Way or any other established disaster
response organization. We strongly discourage any item donation. We are unable to accommodate item
donation and have no current needs.
Emergency Disaster Declaration
Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC)
Washington County – Court House, 1555 Colfax St., Blair, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice.
Sarpy and Cass Counties - Bellevue Fire Department Training Center, 3100 Cornhusker Road, Bellevue.
Tuesday, Sept. 6, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Wednesday, Sept. 7, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Boyd County - Spencer City Office and Fire Hall, 100 E. Main St., Spencer, Neb. 68777:
Tuesday, Sept. 6, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Wednesday, Sept. 7, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Counties designated for assistance to individuals are Boyd, Burt, Cass, Dakota, Dixon, Douglas, Knox, Sarpy
and Washington. Flood survivors may visit any DRC location for assistance. Future DRC locations will be
announced as they are scheduled.
Before visiting a center, people with flood-related losses should register with FEMA even if they have applied
for assistance with the USDA, filed a claim with the U.S. Corps of Engineers, received assistance from local
voluntary agencies, or have called the NEMA flood hotline to report their damage.
Register with FEMA by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. Help is
available in most languages. Those with speech or hearing disability may call (TTY) 800-462-7585. Persons
affected by the floods also may apply for federal assistance through a web-enabled mobile device or
smartphone. Visit m.fema.gov and follow the link to ―apply online for federal assistance.‖
Have the following information ready when you call to register:
-disaster address
you want direct fund deposits)
The Disaster Recovery Centers are staffed by experts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S.
Small Business Administration (SBA) providing loan information for individuals, renters and businesses, as well
as other agencies. They will explain disaster assistance programs and help flood survivors.
For small businesses, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs
caused by the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property
damage. SBA applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure
website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
Nebraska Public Assistance
Public Assistance in 24 counties was approved through two Presidential Disaster Declarations – 4013 and
4014 – following storms and flooding this spring and summer.
Nebraska Individual Assistance – FEMA Registration
Individual Assistance is available in: Boyd, Burt, Cass, Dakota, Dixon, Douglas, Knox, Sarpy and Washington
Counties. There are several ways to register:
Online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
By smartphone through m.FEMA.gov, click on ―Apply Online for FEMA Assistance.‖
By phone, call toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362).
Espanol Oprima 2
Those with a speech disability or hearing loss, who use a TTY, should call 800-462-7585;
or use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) to call 800-621-3362.
Anyone with damage must register with FEMA in order to receive federal disaster assistance. Please have the
following information available in order to speed registration:
Current mailing address
Address of the damaged property
Contact information where FEMA can reach you
Insurance information
Social Security number
Banking information for electronic funds transmission
Anyone with damage should register with FEMA in order to receive federal disaster assistance.
Even though individuals have applied for assistance with the USDA, filed a claim with the U.S. Corps of
Engineers, received assistance from local voluntary agencies, or have called the NEMA flood hotline to report
their damage, they still need to register with FEMA for federal disaster assistance.
After registering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) you may receive a loan packet
from the U.S. Small Business Administration. It is important to complete the packet and send it back quickly.
Iowa Public Assistance
On June 27, 2011, President Obama issued a major disaster declaration for the State of Iowa triggering the
release of Federal funds to help communities recover from Flooding which occurred May 25, 2011, and
continuing. Part of the declaration will provide federal funding to Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Monona,
Pottawattamie, and Woodbury counties under the Public Assistance Program. This funding will be available to
eligible public entities and select nonprofit agencies to cover costs incurred for implementing emergency
protective measures and for the anticipated need for removal of debris. The emergency disaster declaration
does not provide assistance for individual homeowners or businesses
Iowa Federal Individual Assistance Denied – State is Appealing
Gov. Branstad has received notice that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved
Iowa’s request for an extension to the time period to appeal the denial of Iowa’s request for Individual
Assistance under FEMA-1998-DR. Gov. Branstad made the request for an extension on Aug.12, 2011, for
Fremont, Harrison, Monona, Pottawattamie and Woodbury counties.
FEMA granted the extension, in part, because additional time is needed to allow for flood waters to recede,
safe access to damage homes be restored and more damage assessments be conducted. FEMA has
extended the deadline to Oct. 7, 2011, which will allow Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Division the time needed to work with local officials to bolster Iowa’s appeal by capturing damages and
associated impacts.
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
On Aug. 4, 2011, Gov. Branstad received notification that FEMA had denied his request to make the Individual
Assistance Program available to residents of Fremont, Harrison, Monona, Pottawattamie and Woodbury
counties. The State of Iowa had 30 days to appeal FEMA’s denial of the Individual Assistance Program.
However, since the flood water will recede slowly, the Governor asked FEMA for an extension of the appeal.
Please see ―Damage Reports‖ section to ensure the damage to your property has been reported.
Please see ―Financial Assistance‖ section for other aid options.
Evacuation Information
Douglas County (Entire document may also be found at www.omahaflood.org)
The Omaha area is currently under a flood warning. Residents living in the following areas should be prepared
to participate in an evacuation, should future conditions warrant such action.
Area that may be evacuated:
If an immediate flood emergency is declared the following areas may be affected:
• North of Ames Ave: All areas East of Florence Blvd.
• South of Ames Ave: All areas East of 16th Street.
• NOTE: See attached map. The possible evacuation area is shaded in red.
Notification methods:
Should an evacuation be necessary, residents in the affected area will be notified through the following
methods:
• Local media (Television/Radio)
• Internet websites and social media
o www.omahaflood.org
o Facebook: Douglas County Joint Information Center
o Twitter: @douglascty JIC, #omahaflood, #2011MoRivFlood
• Emergency Alert System (EAS)
• Uniformed Fire and Police Personnel will be driving through the evacuation area making public
address announcements and providing printed material with additional information.
General evacuation preparation information:
Residents who self-determine to leave or otherwise evacuate from their residence, or who evacuate as a result
of a notice received from City of Omaha officials, should consider the following prior to leaving their home:
• Close and lock all doors and windows and leave window shades or drapes open.
• Plug all lower level floor drains to keep water from backing up into the building.
• Turn off water at the meter.
• If possible, turn off your electricity at the main breaker box, and gas supply at the shut-off.
• Leave a note on the front door with contact information such as cellular telephone number. The
City of Omaha does NOT have a database to track homeowners who have vacated; therefore,
residents should not call the city when attempting to track friends or relatives.
• Do not leave pets behind or in the home. If residents evacuate to a shelter, plans should be made for
pets; not all shelters accommodate pets.
• Notify a family member or friend outside of the designated evacuation area that you are
evacuating and your intended destination.
Plan for your personal evacuation needs ahead of time. Evacuees should bring:
• Wallet/purse (Including personal identification with current address) If you do not have your current
address on personal ID, please bring a utility bill with your address.
• House and car keys
• Eyeglasses
• Medications (At least 3 days supply)
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
• Clothing
• Family pets
• Cash and credit cards
• Cell phones and chargers
These supplies may need to last for an indefinite period of time. It is suggested that persons bring at least
three (3) days of supplies to meet their individual needs. People who anticipate needing additional
transportation assistance due to special mobility needs should contact 211. Anyone in the evacuation area
that chooses NOT to leave should be aware that rescue at a later time may be delayed.
Additional flood preparation information can be obtained at:
• Omahaflood.org
• www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/floods/html
• Calling 211
Fremont County
A mandatory evacuation is in effect in the South Hamburg area, between Hamburg and the Missouri River (south
end of the city).
A mandatory evacuation is in effect in western Fremont County, from I-29 west to the river. The recent order covers
much of the western third of the county and includes the communities of McPaul, Bartlett and Percival. In all, about
600 people are affected.
Harrison County
No official evacuation order is in effect. Some residents are self-evacuating.
Assistance with evacuating (i.e. moving furniture, etc.) is being coordinated by specific individuals in each city.
Please contact them directly:
Mondamin – City Hall, (712) 646-2431 Modale – Lorraine Thomas, (712) 592-7722
Little Sioux – Ed Callor, (712) 216-0543 Missouri Valley – Rita Miller, (712) 642-3502
Mills County
A Resolution allowing re-entry into certain portions of the mandatory evacuation area was issued by the Mills
County Board of Supervisors and Mills County Emergency Management affecting approximately 53
businesses and residences in southwest Mills County. The re-entry area includes the following: Gaston Ave.
west of I-29; 190th St. from Jardine Ave. north to the end of county maintenance; Hammond Ave. from 190th to
175th St.; 175th St. from Hammond Ave. north to the end of county maintenance; 180th St. from Hammond Ave.
north to the end of county maintenance; 194th St. from US 34 north to the end of county maintenance; 195th St.
from US 34 south to Paddock Ave.; That portion of US 34/State Hwy 978 from I 29 west to the Plattsmouth
bridge. All other sections of the Mandatory Evacuation area remain impassable and residents are not allowed
to return at this time.
In addition, the Board of Supervisors also passed a Resolution setting policy and procedures for re-entry to the
mandatory evacuation area. All residents in the re-entry area are requested to contact Mills County Building
and Zoning Office at 712-527-4347 and Mills County Public Health Environmental Specialist at 712-527-9699
to determine if a free property inspection/damage assessment is necessary. This inspection is required prior to
electricity being restored to the property and will also assist us in collecting information to support our request
for individual assistance from FEMA. An information packet regarding re-entry will be available on the website
at www.millscountyflood.org or by calling the Flood Hotline at 712-527-4231.
The Mills County Levee system remains under constant inspection with the assistance of the Army National
Guard, Army Corps of Engineers and Levee and Drainage District staff. The Army Corps of Engineers has
just completed an emergency repair to the levee approximately 1500 feet South of Nims Road. This repair
involved the placement of 300 feet of riprap to strengthen 150 feet of erosion to the water side of the levee.
We continue to monitor for sand boils, animal burrows and any other changes that may occur. Anticipated
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decreased flows from Gavin’s Point Dam will be helpful in decreasing levee risk; however, the return to normal
flow rates is not anticipated until early October. Accumulating ground water is a significant issue in western
and southwestern Mills County and we anticipate will remain so until the river level decreases below flood
stage. We are currently at approximately 33 feet at Plattsmouth and will need to be below the flood stage of 26
feet to see any improvement in groundwater drainage. We continue to see new road closures caused by
increasing ground water, the latest occurring late last week on Allis Road. Residents of western Mills County
are urged to use caution as we move through the weeks ahead.
6/22, 4 p.m. - Council Bluffs residents were notified of a Level 1 Alert. This message was sent through
the Code Red Alert System: There is no immediate threat to the City of Council Bluffs. The City has
upgraded the flood status to Alert Level 1. An evacuation order is NOT being issued at this time. The City
recommends that you continue to make preparations to leave the area IF the need arises. You will be notified
in the event that the situation escalates.
There is no indication that the Missouri River will top the Federal Levee. If you are in a flood prone area, review
with your family how you would evacuate, where you would go, and where is your family rally point. If you
have special needs to evacuate please call the flood hotline so we can be aware of your situation. (712) 328-
4672
No general evacuation has been recommended. In Council Bluffs only a few homes have been evacuated. In
Pottawattamie County a number of rural homes have been evacuated. If the situation changes an emergency
notification message will be made.
Alert Levels:
Level 1: An unusual or slowly developing event that may impact a levee system or a flood protection system.
Level 2: A flood control protection system component or levee is failing or failure may rapidly occur.
Level 3: Imminent failure of a flood protection system or levee or a failure is in progress
The 911 Communications Center will deliver area advisory and warning messages utilizing the Code Red
Emergency Alerting System. EAS (Emergency Alert system) broadcasts will be activated and broadcast
through the National Weather Service system and media outlets. The tornado warning sirens will be activated
in affected areas for Level 3 evacuations.
Level 1 Message:
A slowly developing flood event is occurring in the area. An evacuation order is not being issued at this time.
The City recommends that you make preparations to leave the area. You will be notified in the event that the
situation escalates. If you are unable to leave the areas on your own call (712) 328-4672. Do not call 911
unless it is an emergency.
Level 2 Message:
A flood protection system failure in the area is happening; please leave the area. Please report to the
Processing Center at Iowa Western Community College (unless a different site is advised). Your primary
evacuation route is (to be announced) and your secondary evacuation route is (to be announced). If you are
unable to leave on your own, call (712) 328-4672. Do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.
Level 3 Message:
Dangerous flooding is affecting your area now. You need to immediately evacuate the area. Please report to
the processing Center located at Iowa Western Community College (unless a different site is advised). Your
primary evacuation route is (to be announced) and you secondary evacuation route is (to be announced). If
you are unable to leave on your own, call (712) 328-4672. Do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.
Sarpy County
At this time, there are voluntary evacuations occurring within Sarpy County, including the Bellevue area and
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areas along the Missouri River. All evacuations at this time are voluntary.
Financial Assistance
Iowa
The State Individual Disaster Assistance Grant Program, (866) 434-4692 is now active for low-income families
in Fremont, Mills, Pottawattamie, Harrison, Woodbury, Monona, Marshall, Tama, and Marion counties.
This program offers grants to families with incomes at or below twice the federal poverty index. Maximum grant
$5,000. The program is launched with a governor's declaration and at the request of local officials. The Iowa
program is automatically canceled when the president issues a disaster declaration for individual assistance for
that county. Federal programs have far higher damage awards.
Iowa Individual Disaster Assistance Grant application and instructions are available by calling (866) 434-4692 ,
or online at http://www.dhs.state.ia.us. Applicants must have household income less than 200 percent of
federal poverty level index, and those details are also online.
Pottawattamie County
Pottawattamie County Community Foundation is offering Disaster Relief Grants to two types of groups:
Individuals/Neighbors and Agencies/Government Entities.
Individuals/Neighbors (group of individuals working together on a project) may apply for assistance for a
specific need related to the disaster up to $500. (i.e. moving expenses, storage units, pump/generator
purchase and/or upkeep, appliance replacement and/or repairs, household repairs, etc.)
Agencies/Government Entities that are doing innovative and meaningful work providing services to residents
within the Pottawattamie County Community Foundation's (PCCF) mission to improve the lives of all residents
during and after a disaster situation. The maximum grant awarded for agency services is $2000.
If an applicant is an individual or a group of neighbors they must be:
Pottawattamie County resident prior to the disaster.
Applying for a project related to a current disaster.
Grant funds must be utilized for a current or upcoming expense. Unfortunately, no reimbursement for
previous expenses can be made.
If an applicant is an organization they must be:
Classified as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service Code, or a
governmental entity
Located within or provide services within Pottawattamie County
Not a previous recipient of a Community Grant for the same project within the calendar year
100% of funds must be spent within the county
NO disaster relief funds can be used as administrative fees for organizations.
For more information, visit www.ourpccf.org or call (712) 256-7007.
Nebraska
See DRC information under “Emergency Disaster Declaration”
Food and Food Stamps
Mills County
Food Stamp applications are now available at the County Auditor’s office (712) 527-3146
Mills County Food Pantry, Barb Kaiman (712) 527-9238
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Nebraska
People receiving SNAP (food stamps) who have lost food due to flood waters may be eligible for replacement
benefits, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. They should contact their DHHS
caseworker or call 1-800-383-4278 for more information.
Call 2-1-1 for contact information on additional food resources in all areas.
Housing
Nebraska
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is offering extended camp stays of up to 90 days for displaced
flood victims in selected state park campgrounds based on availability of campsites. Overnight camping fees
and park permit will be required. The fees range depending on park, campsite and facilities available. The park
permit is $20 for an annual, $10 for a duplicate and $4 for a daily. For more information concerning this
program people can contact the Game and Parks Commission at (402) 471-5586 during business hours.
The Red Cross will provide a written referral to verify that the person/family was displaced by the flooding. To
do this the person must visit a Red Cross site during business hours (current available sites listed below). The
person needs to bring a photo ID and a piece of mail which confirms they are residing at the address impacted
by the flooding. Remember, fees at parks apply and the Red Cross cannot cover fees.
Current Red Cross sites:
• Lincoln—Cornhusker Red Cross Chapter, 220 Oakcreek Drive
• Beatrice—Southeast Nebraska Red Cross Chapter, 205 N. fourth
• Peru—Peru State College, Neal Hall, 17 Park Ave.
• Omaha—Heartland Red Cross Chapter, 2912 S. 80th Ave.
Iowa
People who have been evacuated because of flooding along the Missouri River will be able to camp in certain
areas of Iowa State Parks without having to pay a camping fee or having to leave after 14 consecutive days.
Camping spots that are not part of the reservation system will be open to people evacuated from their homes
on a first come, first serve basis. Evacuees may call the DNR at 515-281-8004 to check on availability of
campsites for long-term use.
Mills County
Individuals needing rent assistance may complete a form for General Relief at the Mills County Auditor’s office.
Private rentals or rental lists may be available by contacting the following phone numbers:
NP Dodge (712) 527-5008 or (402) 397-4900 ReMax Real Estate (712) 527-1234
Rubey Realty (712) 623-2724
Jim Hughes Real Estate (712) 527-3114 – 2 bedroom, $550
Ryan Sell (712) 520-5666 – 1 bedroom apartments, $425/month
Bob Malcom (712) 624-8845 – 2 bedroom, $525/month, 10 month lease required; refrigerator and stove
included, deposit negotiable
Lyndsie Sayers, Malvern (712) 527-0441- 2 bedroom apartment, $500
Paul Howard, Hastings (712) 527-0826 – 2 bedroom house, possible 1 bedroom upstairs
Tim McGann (712) 370-3497 – 1 bedroom apartment, $475/month, 2 bedroom $525/month; all appliances
provided; pets may be allowed
Sheryl Butler (402) 315-7732 – short term housing, upstairs with own bathroom, small refrigerator and
microwave; 2 rooms, small dog or caged animal allowed; other dogs already in home
Lonnie Mayberry – 1-2 bedroom apartment – price negotiable – (712) 527-3509
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Loess Hills Estates (712) 527-4062
Oak Creek Apartments, Red Oak (712) 623-2873 (stairs)
Mid Town, Atlantic (712) 243-3691 (handicap unit)
Camping options:
Pony Creek - $10/day, no maximum, no showers (712) 527-9685
Montgomery County Fairground Camping (712) 623-5127
Glenwood Lake Park - $22/day, $130/week, $400/month (712) 520-7275
Viking Lake State Park, Stanton
Waubonsie State Park, east on Highway 2 from I-29
Duane Fisher - room to park farm equipment on his land, (712) 527-9296
Legal Assistance
Nebraska
Nebraska flood survivors in the nine declared individual assistance counties adjacent to the Missouri River may
request disaster-related advice from a lawyer using a toll-free legal aid line operated by Volunteer Lawyers of
Nebraska through the Young Lawyers Division of the American Bar Association.
The number is 1-800-742-3005, which is staffed from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Callers
may leave a message after hours and on weekends.
The service is for legal issues arising from flooding during the period May 24 through August 1, in the counties
of Boyd, Burt, Cass, Dakota, Dixon, Douglas, Knox, Sarpy and Washington.
Legal services available to qualifying individuals include:
)
-foreclosure problems
There are some limitations on disaster legal services. Those will be explained on an individual basis when
required.
Mental Health Counseling
Nebraska
The Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258, is available to farmers, ranchers, and ag-related businesses
experiencing stress from recent floods. No-cost vouchers and information on confidential mental health issues
for persons affected by the crisis are available.
Resources can also be found on the DHHS Network of Care site at http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/NetworkofCare or
by calling the Nebraska Family Helpline at (888) 866-8660.
Iowa
Iowa Disaster Behavioral Health Response Team (DBHRT) is a trained team of volunteers who will respond to
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the mental health needs of Iowa residents following disasters and critical incidents. The team provides services
for community providers based on local area needs and may be delivered at a disaster site in an affected
community or statewide. For more information go to http://www.iowadbhrt.org/.
All flood-affected individuals are still encouraged to contact the Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985.
Callers can request assistance from this program and request an individual home visit with a counselor. Hotline
operators are available 24/7.
Military Assistance
Impacted military families that need assistance due to any flooding issues should contact their unit commander
and first sergeant. The Airman and Family Readiness Center has multiple resources available for emergency
relief.
Mold Information
Iowa
The Iowa Department of Public Health flood website has several resources to help guide you in preventing
mold growth after a flood or how to clean up mold if it is already present by the time you can reenter your home
or business. http://www.idph.state.ia.us/EmergencyResponse/Flooding.aspx or
http://www.idph.state.ia.us/eh/healthy_homes_mold.asp
Mortgage Assistance
Iowa
Disaster-impacted homeowners that feel they may begin to struggle with their mortgage payment are
encouraged to call Iowa Mortgage Help at 877-622-4866 or (515) 331-8081 or visit
www.IowaMortgageHelp.com. Iowa Mortgage Help offers free, confidential mortgage counseling for Iowa
homeowners. Iowa Mortgage Help does not offer direct financial assistance.
National Flood Insurance
Flood insurance is a financial decision you and your family need to discuss with an insurance agent. Details
about this program can be found at www.fema.gov/business/nfip/. Please be aware that in most cases there is
a 30 day waiting period before a new policy becomes effective.
Nuclear Power Plant Information
There is no threat to plant employees or to the public; the plant continues to operate safely.
Public Health Information
Information on Tetanus, mosquitoes, West Nile, wells, sewer/septic issues, drinking water, flood clean up, etc.
may be found at local public health departments:
Cass County - Sarpy/Cass County Department of Health and Wellness – (402) 339-4334
Douglas County - Douglas County Health Department – (402) 444-7476
Fremont County - Southwest Iowa Home Health Services – (712) 374-2685
Harrison County - Harrison County Home & Public Health – (712) 644-2220
Mills County - Mills County Public Health – (712) 527-9699
Pottawattamie County - Council Bluffs Public Health Department – (712) 328-4666 (inside city limits) or
Visiting Nurse Association of Pottawattamie County – (712) 328-3990 (outside Council Bluffs)
Sarpy County - Sarpy/Cass County Department of Health and Wellness – (402) 339-4334
Washington County - Three Rivers Public Health Department – (402) 727-5396
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Call 2-1-1 for contact information in other areas.
To prevent injury and infection, wash often with soap and water. You should wear protective clothing such as
hard-soled shoes, long pants, long-sleeved shirts and heavy work gloves. Take care of any wounds right away
by washing hands first, cleaning the wound with soap and water, patting the wound dry and applying a clean,
dry dressing; then see your doctor to determine if you need a tetanus shot. The best tetanus vaccine is one
that will also protect you from diptheria and pertussis (also called a Tdap). (See also ―Tetanus Shots‖)
Road and Park Closures
If you see water on the road, treat it as dangerous and change your route. In some cases low lying roads have flooded
before officials have become aware of them.
I-29 in Pottawattamie County – Both north- and southbound lanes of I-29 are now closed from milepost 55
(North 25th Street) in Council Bluffs to milepost 71 near Loveland.
I-29 detour route for Council Bluffs/Omaha area:
Detour starts at the I-29/680 interchange near Loveland, continues east on I-680, then southwest on I-
80 into Council Bluffs
I-80 east- and westbound remains open through Council Bluffs/Omaha
I-29 in Fremont County - Interstate 29 from the Bartlett, Iowa, interchange (exit 24) south to the I-29/U.S. 136
interchange in Missouri is now closed.
Southbound I-29 traffic: Use exit 24 (near Bartlett) to U.S. 34 or take interchanges north of this area for other
destinations.
Northbound I-29 traffic detour:
Starting at the I-29/U.S. 136 interchange in Missouri
Go east on U.S. 136 to U.S. 71 north
Take U.S. 71 north to Iowa 92 (at Lyman)
Go west on Iowa 92 to I-29 at Council Bluffs
U.S. 34 in Iowa and the Plattsmouth Bridge over the Missouri River between Iowa and Nebraska remains open
at this time. However, there is construction in the area that involves a detour and head-to-head traffic. This
area continues to be threatened by flood waters and conditions could change.
Traffic from southbound I-29 is being directed to Iowa 2 east to U.S. 275 north back on Iowa 2 east to U.S. 71
south through Iowa into Missouri and U.S. 136 west to I-29 in Missouri.
For northbound and southbound I-29 travelers intending to go through Iowa, the detour begins in
Kansas City. Take I-35 north through Iowa to I-90 west in Minnesota to I-29 south.
Alternative routes for northbound I-29 are as follows:
To reach destinations south of Council Bluffs, continue from U.S. 136 in Missouri to U.S. 71 north to
Iowa 2 west to I-29 north. (I-29 north is closed north from exit 55 in Council Bluffs to exit 71 (U.S. 30 at
Missouri Valley)).
Persons traveling to Sioux City can continue on U.S. 71 north to U.S. 20 west to Sioux City.
Persons traveling to Council Bluffs/Omaha should stay on U.S. 71 north to Iowa 2 west into Council
Bluffs.
I-680
I-680 is closed from the I-29/680 interchange (exit 61 near Crescent) in Iowa to North 30th Street in Omaha,
Nebraska. (exit 13). This closure includes the Mormon Bridge across the Missouri River.
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Douglas County
John J Pershing from Dick Collins Road to Ponca Road, and Ida Street from Crownpoint Avenue to Lindbergh
Plaza (which is along the levee) is closed. Riverfront Drive between Cuming and Dodge is closed.
Freedom and NP Dodge Parks are closed as well as the Lewis and Clark Landing. Lists and maps of trails
currently closed as a result of the flood can be found at the City of Omaha Parks and Rec Trails website.
Fremont County
Highway 2 is closed from Nebraska City east into Iowa due to water covering the road on the Iowa side.
Iowa 333 is closed from I-29 into Hamburg. Access to Hamburg is currently available via U.S. 275.
Mills County
Current road closures in this area include: 180th St between Hwy 34 & Kane Ave; Nims Rd West of 195th.;
Karns Rd North from Plattsmouth Bridge; Hwy 34 at I-29 Overpass; Jesup Rd at I-29 Overpass; 195th St South
of Paddock to County line; 195th St from Paddock Ave to Rist Ave; Kane Ave Closed from Jesup to the West;
Paddock Ave between 195th St and Painter Ave; Rist Ave at Raleigh Rd; Quigg Ave at Painter Rd; Kane Ave
and Karns Rd, West of 180th; 190th St North of Hwy 34 and South of Kane Ave
DOT: 866-452-8518 (7am-9pm), Sherriff (712) 527-4871
Pottawattamie County
Big Lake Road (near park) and Gifford Road near Dog Bite Lane are closed. For a detailed map visit
http://www.councilbluffs-ia.gov.
Washington County
For residents east of 35 on P14 (Cottonwood Area) - all access is denied. County Road 30 is closed. The
detour signs that have been placed on Highway 133 are for the closing of Highway 30 and 75, not I-29.
Nebraska 5-1-1 - (800) 906-9069 – call for state highway and interstate information
Recommendations:
To and from Kansas: use Highway 77 out of Lincoln and Highway 81 out of York;
Across Nebraska: 1-80 is expected to remain safe and dry route throughout the flooding months.
Strongly suggested route: If you are west of York on I-80 and intend to travel north on I-29 at Council Bluffs,
consider taking Highway 81 north at York to I-90 in South Dakota thus avoiding detour traffic in Iowa.
Avoid Highway 75 because of existing construction projects, lane closures and flood mitigation operations
Avoid Highway 77 north of Lincoln because of delays due to bridge construction near Fremont
Iowa 5-1-1 - call for automated road conditions, (or (800) 288-1047 if dialing from outside Iowa) or visit
www.511ia.org The customer service center has closed.
Kansas - 866-511-KDOT (5368)
Minnesota - 800-542-0220
Missouri - 888-275-6636, toll free customer service hotline available 24/7
800-222-6400, automated recorded message
South Dakota - 866-697-3511
Sandbags
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has posted information on their website concerning disposal of
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sand and sandbags. The DNR provides guidance for cities, counties, residences and businesses. Visit
http://www.iowadnr.gov/InsideDNR/SocialMediaPressRoom/DisasterAssistance.aspx scroll down the page and
choose the ―Sand and Sandbag Disposal‖ link. The DNR has a variety of useful information and resources at
this site.
Individuals needing sandbags to protect private property will need to contact vendors directly. Information on
how to fill and use sandbags for flood-fighting activities should visit the US Army Corps of Engineer’s Website.
(Links to this and related information can be found at www.omahaflood.org)
Mills County
Sand by truckload:
Lyman Riley Concrete Company, $10/ton (402) 359-2522
Frank Leahy, $10/ton delivered (712) 624-9127
Sandbags:
Midwestern Bags DM, 18x30 is 44 cents (563) 590-2396
Mark Hughes Construction, delivery available (402) 616-4501 or (712) 527-1000
Garden Treasure, Ryan Bichel, 75 cents empty, $2 full, or $1.50 fill yourself (712) 527-3602
Mendards, 49 cents (712) 366-7909
School District Information
Council Bluffs
Resources may be available for families displaced to different parts of the city due to flooding, including
transportation to and from school, free or reduced lunches, and/or waiving some registration fees. For more
information please call Student and Family Services, (712) 328-6423.
Sewer Backups
Douglas County
Home/Business sewer backups: Those that have had sewer backup problems in the past are likely to
experience similar backups in conjunction with this flooding event and heavy rainfall. Officials are meeting with
consultants to model the impact of various rainfall events to develop mitigation strategies, but they are
encouraging businesses and homeowners that feel that they may be at risk to identify alternatives for
protecting their property.
North Downtown storm and sanitary service disruption: There is always the possibility that intense rainfall will
cause problems with storm and sanitary sewer service. High water levels associated with this flooding event
may make the problem worse. At this time, officials do not expect widespread problems with this issue but are
modeling the impacts of various rainfall events to better predict what areas may become vulnerable if
circumstances change. The community will be advised if expectations change as a result of the outcome of
the modeling study.
Shelters
Please note that these shelters are only for those affected by the disaster. Individuals who did not have a home prior to
the flooding should contact 2-1-1 for referrals to other local shelters.
Nebraska
If you are in need of shelter, contact the Heartland Chapter of the American Red Cross at (402) 343-7700.
Iowa
If you are in need of shelter, call the Loess Hills Chapter of the American Red Cross at (712) 322-4017.
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Spanish Language Resources
Nebraska
Flood Information - Informacion de Inundaciones - resources and links can be found on the NEMA website at
www.nema.nebraska.gov and click Flood Information - Informacion de Inundaciones in the Quick Links. Para
infomación de las inundaciones en Español, por favor usa estos recursos.
Storage Units
U-Haul's Nebraska franchise is offering 30 days of free storage to Omaha and Council Bluffs residents affected
by flooding. People interested in the program can have a U-Haul storage container delivered to them and fill it
up themselves before sending the container to be stored in a warehouse. Details about the free storage offer
are available by calling (800) 553-3377.
501 Underground Climate Control Storage (501 S. 13th St, Old Market). is offering 30% off the first 3 months of
storage for anyone displaced by the flood. Call Monique at (402) 880-9100 to make arrangements.
Mills County
Budget Storage, West Omaha (402) 333-5979 or (402) 734-5858
Hawkeye Storage, Red Oak (712) 623-4041
O’Neal Storage, Red Oak (712) 623-3764
Bellevue Budget Storage (402) 734-5858
Steve Oliphant (712) 310-7178 or (877) 770-7637
PODS www.pods.com
Telephone Forwarding
Qwest/CenturyLink
Qwest is currently offering free Emergency Call Forwarding to residential and small business customers who
have been affected by the flood. Calls to your home or business can be forwarded to your wireless phone
or your temporary location for a period of 30 days. This can be extended, or cancelled, by calling our repair
department 24 hours a day.
Residential 1-800-573-1311 Small Business 1-800-954-1211 Large Business 1-800-223-7508
Tetanus Shots
It is recommended that every person get a tetanus booster shot every 10 years. According to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, exposure to flood water does not increase the risk of tetanus.
While it is always a good idea to make sure immunizations are up to date, there are no special
recommendations for tetanus immunizations during flood situations and documentation of vaccination should
not be a pre-requisite for flood work.
Unemployment
Nebraska
The Nebraska Department of Labor is accepting applications for DUA from individuals employed or self-
employed in Boyd, Burt, Cass, Dakota, Dixon, Douglas, Knox, Sarpy, and Washington Counties whose
employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted due to flooding between May 24 and August 1, 2011.
Applications for DUA must be filed within 30 days of this announcement. For Nebraska, the applications must
be filed by September 26, 2011.
To be eligible for DUA benefits under Presidential Disaster Declaration FEMA-4013 - DR, individuals must
meet all of the following criteria:
-employed worker whose unemployment was caused as a direct result of the
major disaster declared by the President; and
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e benefits from any state; and
-employed in, or were scheduled to begin work or self-employment in, one of
the counties listed above; and
-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of
income.
Also eligible to apply for DUA are individuals who:
-employed person because of physical damage or
destruction to the place of employment as a direct result of a disaster; or
-employment services because of an injury caused as a direct result of the
disaster; or
household as a result of the natural disaster; or
-employment due to closure of a facility by the federal government.
Mills County
Individuals displaced due to flood will not have to look for a job to qualify for unemployment since they will
return to their position after restoration. They can still do application process to receive unemployment. Iowa
Workforce Development Workforce Advisor Mark Hopping 712-527-5214, Fax 712-527-5214
Utilities
Metropolitan Utilities District (M.U.D.)
Customers who plan to evacuate their homes or businesses due to the flooding should turn off all gas
appliances as if they were leaving for a vacation or extended period of time. Customers who would like the
District to shut off the gas to their home or business, should call 402.554.6666. To report a gas leak, call
402.554.7777.
After the flooding subsides and customers return, M.U.D. will turn on the gas at no charge. Please call
402.554.6666 to make an appointment to turn on the gas. If customers have questions and want to visit with a
natural gas technician, call 402.504.7930.
If you plan to evacuate your home or business, shut off the water service. Turn the shut-off valve by the water
meter clockwise.
After the flooding subsides and you return to your home or business, turn the shut-off valve by the meter
counter-clockwise to turn on the water.
Omaha Public Power District (OPPD)
OPPD set up a flood blog site and updated information on their website, www.oppd.com. The website will
continuously be updated with additional information as it becomes available and will have a link to the blog site
also. Information about standby generators is also available online.
What to do prior to the flood for electrical safety
Make sure your electric circuit breakers, fuses, are clearly marked for each area of the house.
Turn off electricity at the main breaker box, or fuse box.
Unplug appliances
Mid-American Energy
If time allows, customers should call MidAmerican Energy at 888-427-5632 to have their services temporarily
disconnected if their electric or natural gas meter is threatened by flooding. There is no charge for turning off
and turning on service due to flooding. Visit www.midamericanenergy.com for updates and safety information.
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Volunteering
Douglas County
Sandbagging has been cancelled in Omaha until further notice.
To register for future flood-related volunteer opportunities as they are added, visit the United Way's Volunteer
Registry, www.volunteersolutions.org/omaha. Anyone without access to Internet can call (402) 522-7933 to
register.
For additional flood-related volunteer opportunities, contact the Heartland Chapter of the American Red Cross
at (402) 343-7700 or the Omaha Salvation Army at (402) 898-6000.
Mills County
To assist us in scheduling and tracking our volunteers, we are using an on-line sign-up for all volunteers as
well as registration for each volunteer event you are interested in participating in. Those without computer
access can contact us at (712) 527-4231 for assistance. To complete your volunteer sign-up and activity
registration, please access the website as follows: 1) www.millscoia.us 2) ―Flood 2011‖ 3) ―Click here to
register for and view Volunteer opportunities for flooding in Mills County‖. At this point, you can select what
day/shift you would like to help with and register. You will be prompted to enter your contact information as part
of this process.
Pottawattamie County
For information on how you can become a volunteer, contact the Heartland Chapter in Omaha at (402) 343-
7700 or the Loess Hills Chapter in Council Bluffs at (712) 322-4017.
Water Levels
The Army Corp of Engineers has slowed the release to 90,000 cfs for approximately 2 weeks and then will
drop 5,000 cfs every two days, until reaching 40,000 cfs, which is slightly above the typical fall release rate, on
or about Sept. 30.
National Weather Service Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service as of September 5:
Verdel, 25.24 feet – is at Moderate Flood Stage which is 25 to 26 feet,
Niobrara, 23.57 feet – is at Moderate Flood Stage which is 23 to 24 feet
Decatur, 33.89 feet – is at Action Stage which is 33 to 35 feet
Blair, 26.85 feet – is at Flood Stage which is 26.5 to 28.5
Omaha, 29.43 feet – is at Flood Stage which is 29 to 32 feet
Plattsmouth, 28.44 feet – is at Flood Stage which is 26 to 31 feet
Nebraska City, 19.8 feet – is at Flood Stage which is 18 to 23 feet,
Brownville, 35.2 feet – is at Flood Stage which is 33 to 37 feet
Rulo, 21.32 feet – is at Moderate Flood Stage which is 21 to 25.6 feet
Pottawattamie County
The City of Council Bluffs, the Corp of Engineers and first responders are monitoring the levees and their
infrastructure 24 hours a day. They have confidence in the levee system and will work quickly to fix any
problems. The levees will have water around them from relief wells, saturation etc. This is normal so do not be
alarmed. If you see a flow of water from a levee that you believe is severe call 911.
Water Safety (Drinking)
Cass County (Nebraska)
The city of Plattsmouth has a contingency plan in the event that the Plattsmouth water treatment plant was to
be flooded. Water from the Cass County Rural Water District No. 1 would be made available via existing piping
to the city. If Rural Water District No. 1 needs additional water, it has a connection to the Beaver Lake Public
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Water System.
Douglas County, Sarpy County
Metropolitan Utilities District’s three drinking water treatment plants continue to operate normally and have not
been affected by flooding in the Omaha metro area. Two of the drinking water treatment plants are served by
the Platte River. The Florence Water Treatment Plant, served by the Missouri River, is at a high elevation and
has not had any problems.
In the unlikely event that the Florence facility would be taken out of service, reliability would not be affected
because the other drinking water treatment plants -- Platte West and Platte South -- have the capacity to serve
the metro area.
(See also ―Well Water Information‖)
Water Treatment and Natural Gas Facilities
Metropolitan Utilities District’s three water treatment plants and natural gas facilities continue to operate
normally and have not been affected by flooding in the Omaha metro area.
Well Water Information
Well owners should take the following steps if they believe their well will be impacted:
· Before taking the well out of service, store a supply of clean water;
· Disconnect the power supply for the well. Consult a Nebraska-licensed well driller or pump installer if help
is needed;
· Perform actions necessary to make the well water-tight, including removing the well vent and replacing it
with a water-tight plug, and sealing any visible joint openings with water-tight caulking or equivalent material;
· Cover the top of the well with a heavy-duty plastic trash bag or equivalent protective covering and tightly
secure it, making it as water-tight as possible to keep out dirt, debris and contaminants.
Sealing won’t eliminate the need for testing and possible disinfection, but it will provide the best chance for the
well to come on-line quickly and minimize repair costs and maintenance.
Contact local Extension offices for more information, or visit http://flood.unl.edu/.
WIC Information
Individuals displaced by the flood and receiving WIC benefits are allowed to use their voucher in either
Nebraska or Iowa.
For More Information….
Nebraska
Nebraska Emergency Management Agency – www.nema.ne.gov
Available Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., (855) 211-2453
Burt County
For updated information, residents may call (402) 727-2785
Cass County (NE)
More information can be found on the Cass County Emergency Management page on Facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cass-County-Emergency-Management-Agency/231685286248
Dakota County
This area is served by 2-1-1 in Sioux City – (866) 765-1211
Douglas County
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
Feel free to call 2-1-1 anytime. We are receiving regular updates from Douglas County Emergency
Management. Please do not call DCEMA directly. Links to updates may be found at www.omahaflood.org and
http://www.douglascounty-ne.gov/dcema/missouri-river-flood-2011
Harrison County
Housing requests between people is happening thru Facebook – Harrison County Flood 2011
Mills County
Call 2-1-1 anytime for information. A website has been established to provide Information and links including
the Army Corps of Engineer’s maps. The website address is www.millscoia.us, click on the ―Flood‖ tab.
Pottawattamie County
Call 2-1-1 anytime for information. We are receiving regular updates from Pottawattamie County Emergency
Management. Please do not call PCEMA directly. Resource management, planning, and reaction to
emergencies are occurring in the Emergency Operations Center, and telephone calls for information are
hampering these efforts. Use the above sources for updated information.
Both the City of Council Bluffs http://www.councilbluffs-ia.gov and Pottawattamie County
http://www.pottcounty.com are updating their web sites with current information. Anyone can also ―friend‖ the
Pottawattamie County Emergency Management page on Facebook.
Sarpy County
More information can be found on the Sarpy County Emergency Management page on Facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sarpy-County-Emergency-Management/181291528588635
Washington County
For information, residents may call (402) 426-8881. Facebook is also being used for updates – ―Washington-
County-Flood‖ for information or ―Washington-County-Cares‖ for those in need and those who want to help.
www.uwmidlands.org/211 Dial 2-1-1 Toll Free
