DES MOINES, Iowa – Devastating floods that knocked down bridges and collapsed levees and earthen dams have closed more than 20 CUs across this state. And more credit union doors are expected to shut as flood waters continue to rise, according to the Iowa CU League.
CU staff and members were pitching in statewide to assist those affected by the storms, the league reported. Representatives from the ICUL were doing their part, too, lifting sandbags in place, trying to keep floodwaters away from Des Moines CUs and homes next in line.
Emily Oliver, public affairs specialist at the league, confirmed the flooding already is the worst to hit Iowa since 1993. “And more rain is coming. Some rivers aren’t expected to crest until this weekend or next week.”
“Iowa is also better prepared in many ways than we were in 1993 because of that experience,” said Murray Williams, ICUL vice president, in a prepared statement. “League staff have been in constant contact with the credit unions impacted by the flooding, and we plan to continue to provide support as needed.”
The league also sent communications to Iowa credit unions reminding them about disaster relief grants that are available to those in need of emergency assistance. Oliver said the league is receiving donations to relief funds from CUs that have not been affected. “All of the tornadoes and the flooding have made this an extremely difficult and challenging year for Iowa credit unions,” Oliver said.
In addition to the flooding, Oliver reported that a tornado that struck the western part of the state on Tuesday had caused problems at CUs, cutting power and communications.
