Author(s): S. K. Nanda; Michael A. Ports
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Abstract: Several factors contributed to the antecedent hydrologic conditions leading up to the Flood of 2008. 2007 was the fourth wettest year on record, for the state of Iowa resulting in saturated soil conditions and higher than normal flows on streams and rivers. In addition, portions of Iowa and Wisconsin received above normal snowfall during the winter of 2008 resulting in significant snow water equivalents. In particular, Madison, Wisconsin recorded over 101.4 inches of snow breaking the previous record of 76.1 inches by over 2 feet. Much of northern Iowa had snow water equivalents of 2 to 4 inches with areas in Northeastern Iowa having snow water equivalents in excess of 4 inches. The state of Wisconsin had widespread areas of 4 to 6 inches with locally higher amounts in the Wisconsin River Basin. Rapid snow melt in late February caused tributaries to rise and stay above normal well into March with the Rock River experiencing major flooding in the Quad Cities area. Figure 1 shows snow water equivalents in the Upper Mississippi River Basin prior to the major snow melt.
Year: 2009