Iowans deal with a wide range of disasters every year—from severe storms and flooding to agricultural and public health emergencies. Because of that, being prepared isn’t just helpful, it can make a real difference in how quickly people recover and how much damage is avoided.
To help meet that need, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has introduced a new Disaster Readiness website. The goal is simple: give Iowans one reliable place to find clear, practical information on how to prepare for emergencies, respond when they happen, and recover afterward.
What makes this effort stand out is the Extension’s strong local presence. With staff in all 99 counties, they already have close ties to the communities they serve. That local connection becomes especially important during disasters, when people need timely information and trusted support.
Behind the website is the Iowa Extension Disaster Education Network, a group of more than 20 specialists and educators. Their approach is built around what’s known as the disaster cycle—breaking preparedness into four key phases: getting ready before something happens, responding during an event, recovering afterward, and taking steps to reduce future risk.
According to emergency management specialist Lori Williams, the focus is on helping people make informed decisions when it matters most. That includes offering tools not just for individuals and families, but also for farmers, business owners, and local leaders who play a role in keeping communities running during difficult times.
The site doesn’t just focus on the disasters people typically think about, like floods or tornadoes. Instead, it takes an “all-hazards” approach, covering a broad range of situations—including natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and even human-caused or technological emergencies.
Users can find a variety of helpful resources, including:
- Guidance on protecting mental health during and after stressful events
- Simple, practical steps families can take at home to stay prepared
- Planning tools for businesses and community leaders
- Information for farmers on protecting crops, livestock, and operations
The overall message is straightforward: preparation matters. When people take time to plan ahead, they’re better equipped to protect themselves, their property, and their communities—and they tend to recover faster when something does go wrong.
The Disaster Readiness website is expected to keep growing, with updated resources added over time to reflect new challenges and changing conditions across Iowa.
Photo provided by Donna Savits
