As of now, more than 250,000 Iowans are believed to be without power. Alliant Energy is reporting up to 100,000 Iowa customers without power, while MidAmerican Energy is reporting up to 65,000 without power. In addition, the Rural Electric Co-Ops (RECs) have recently reported as many as 100,000 rural customers are also without power.
"As more information comes in, the seriousness of this storm becomes more clear," said Culver. "The state emergency team has done a terrific job coordinating the response and we are doing everything we can to help the utility companies get power back to the hundreds of thousands of Iowans who need it. Iowans should be prepared to shelter for up to 72 hours, and if they need to go to shelters it is our responsibility to get them the information. I encourage them not to hesitate to call 9-1-1 if they feel they are facing an emergency situation. Operators are on call and ready to help."
In addition, Culver has signed an official proclamation suspending several transportation regulations to allow service and repair crews to respond to disaster sites.
American Red Cross Shelter Activity in Iowa for Winter Storm
Additional Shelter Information
