Moderate Risk Iowa  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Wapello County IA

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

6/ 10
Threat Score
Population
35
Area
432
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
7
federally declared

Wapello County IA in Iowa faces tornado / flash flooding risk across its 432 square mile area. Ottumwa on the Des Moines River serves this southeast Iowa county. Wapello serves as the county seat and regional emergency coordination hub.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 6 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Blizzard
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 7
Last Major Event 2019 Iowa River Flooding
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (641) 683-5061
Emergency Shelters 3 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes State and US highways

// County Profile

County Wapello County IA
State Iowa (IA)
Population 35
Area 432 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Major Cities

Ottumwa IA

// Cities in This County

// Other Iowa Counties