Ames Floodagedon 2010

As of yesterday, most athletic facilities at Iowa State were under (partial) water. Drinking water is not expected to be safe until early next week. A total of six water mains have broken and people are stranded in their homes, out of town, or in town. A boil ordinance will be in affect for up to a week after water pressure is restored, as 1 water tower is completely empty and another is just starting to fill. They will be opening up fire hydrants to flush water to rid contaminants which will dump even more water into the streets. I only hope they know what they're doing!

Luckily, we live just outside of city limits and are part of a rural water association. I did make it into town to experience the craziness of the water shortage at Hy-Vee (yes, they rain out of bottled water and were well on their way to running out of Gatorade and flavored waters, as well) and to take some photos. Is it wrong of me to think that natural disasters are beautiful?

Also, in case you were wondering the speed limit for all boats is 25 mph at the Iowa State Center! ;-)

Most Duff Avenue businesses are still flooded, but it's looking promising that they could open sometime next week, as well. At least the biggies, like Target & Wal-Mart, because *how* will we survive without them? The local, family owned restaurants, garages, and other businesses could be even longer.

All in all, I feel very grateful. I have been safe (so far), but more rain is expected tonight and tomorrow. Let's hope it isn't as bad as is being predicted.

For more information about the flooding, check: The Des Moines Register, The City of Ames

See more of my flood pictures on Facebook. (You should be able to view these even if you aren't a member of Facebook.)