Water Outage in
Des Moines, Iowa - Live Map & Updates February 13, 2026
Track water service interruptions and advisories in Des Moines, Iowa. Get real-time updates on water utility outages affecting your area. There are currently 3,593 reports being investigated in the Des Moines, Iowa region.
Visualizing reported water outages within 25 miles of city center.
Experiencing a water outage in Des Moines?
If you're experiencing a water outage in your area of Des Moines, Iowa, please report it using the button above. Your report helps us track outages more accurately and assists other residents in staying informed about service disruptions in their neighborhood.
Complete Guide to Water Outages in Des Moines, Iowa
Table of Contents
Des Moines Water Outage Map and Service Providers
The map above shows current water outages and service disruptions reported in the Des Moines, Iowa area. The water service providers serving this region include Des Moines Water Works and Iowa American Water. These providers work to restore service as quickly as possible when outages occur. If you're experiencing a service disruption, please report it using the button above to help us track outages more accurately in your area.
Track and Report Water Outages in Des Moines, Iowa
Stay informed and prepared for water service outages affecting Des Moines, Iowa through our real-time water utility outage monitoring platform. Water utility providers including Des Moines Water Works and Iowa American Water serve Des Moines residents, and tracking service outages helps you understand water supply disruptions in your area. Whether dealing with a temporary water service interruption or a widespread water distribution problem affecting Iowa, this system provides essential information about water utility service status to keep Des Moines residents informed about water availability and help them prepare accordingly during water service disruptions.
Residents of Des Moines can track water outages from major water utility providers including Des Moines Water Works and Iowa American Water. When you experience a water service outage in your area of Des Moines, Iowa, you can report it immediately to help other community members stay informed about water supply disruptions and utility service issues. Your water outage reports contribute to a comprehensive database of water utility service problems, enabling faster response times and better communication between water companies and Des Moines residents. By sharing your outage experience, you're helping create a more prepared community that can quickly identify water service issues, estimate restoration times, and coordinate responses to water supply interruptions affecting Iowa.
The interactive water outage map for Des Moines, Iowa displays reported water service disruptions, allowing you to see if outages are isolated incidents or part of a larger water distribution system issue affecting multiple neighborhoods. This community-driven approach to water outage tracking ensures that information about water utility service status in Des Moines is accurate, timely, and accessible to everyone who needs it. Join thousands of Iowa residents who rely on this platform to stay informed about water outages and contribute to a safer, more prepared community during water service disruptions.
Common Causes of Water Outages in Des Moines, Iowa
Understanding what causes water outages in Des Moines, Iowa can help you better prepare and respond. Here are the most common reasons for service disruptions:
- 1 Severe weather or natural disasters damaging water infrastructure
- 2 High demand during extreme weather or emergencies overwhelming the system
- 3 Contamination events requiring system flushing and water quality testing
- 4 Drought conditions affecting water supply sources in Iowa
- 5 Water main breaks in the distribution system serving Des Moines, Iowa
- 6 Power outages affecting water treatment and distribution facilities
- 7 Equipment failures at water treatment plants or pumping stations
- 8 Scheduled maintenance and infrastructure upgrades in the Des Moines water system
How to Prepare for Water Outages in Des Moines
Being prepared for water outages in Des Moines, Iowa can significantly reduce the impact on your daily life. Here are essential preparation steps:
Pre-Outage Preparation Checklist
- Know the location of your main water shut-off valve
- Stock up on hand sanitizer and wet wipes for hygiene when water isn't available
- Have a supply of bottled water for drinking and cooking
- Store at least one gallon of water per person per day (minimum 3-day supply)
- Keep clean, food-grade containers for water storage
- Plan for alternative sanitation methods if the outage is prolonged
- Keep water purification tablets or a water filter as backup
What to Do During a Water Outage in Des Moines
When a water outage occurs in Des Moines, Iowa, follow these steps to stay safe and minimize inconvenience:
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- 1 Report the water outage to your local water utility in Des Moines immediately
- 2 Conserve water by limiting flushing, showering, and washing
- 3 Check for water leaks in your home - sudden pressure drops may indicate leaks
- 4 Use hand sanitizer when water isn't available for handwashing
- 5 If under a boil water advisory, boil water for at least one minute before use
- 6 Avoid using water for non-essential purposes like watering lawns or washing cars
- 7 Follow all instructions from your water utility and local health department
- 8 Use stored water sparingly - prioritize drinking and cooking
Service Restoration Information for Des Moines, Iowa
Water service restoration in Iowa involves system flushing, pressure testing, and water quality testing before service can be safely restored. The process ensures water meets safety standards. Residents in Des Moines can typically expect service restoration within 2-4 hours, though boil water advisories may remain in effect for additional time while water quality is verified through laboratory testing. However, severe weather conditions, widespread infrastructure damage, or complex technical issues in the Des Moines area could extend these estimated restoration times.
Stay Updated
For the latest restoration updates in Des Moines, Iowa, check this page regularly or contact your local utility provider directly. We update outage information every few minutes based on community reports and official utility data.
Frequently Asked Questions About Water Outages in Des Moines, Iowa
How long do water outages typically last in Des Moines, Iowa?
Most water outages in Des Moines are resolved within 2-4 hours. However, major water main breaks or contamination events may take 24-48 hours or longer. Boil water advisories may remain in effect after service is restored until water quality is confirmed safe.
What is a boil water advisory and why is it issued in Des Moines?
A boil water advisory is issued when there's a possibility that water may be contaminated. During an advisory, you should boil water for at least one minute before drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or preparing baby formula. This precaution protects against potential bacterial contamination.
How much water should I store for emergencies in Des Moines?
FEMA recommends storing at least one gallon of water per person per day, with a minimum 3-day supply. For a family of four, that's 12 gallons. Store more if you have pets, live in a hot climate, or have special medical needs.
Can I use water from my water heater during an outage in Des Moines?
Yes, your water heater contains a significant amount of clean water (typically 40-80 gallons). Turn off the power or gas to the heater first, then drain water from the bottom valve. This water is safe for drinking and cooking.
What should I do if my water pressure is low in Des Moines?
Low water pressure may indicate a water main break or system issue. Report it to your water utility immediately. Conserve water usage, check for leaks in your home, and follow any conservation notices from your utility provider.
Recent Reports near Des Moines
Multiple reports of service interruption
Outage affecting several neighborhoods
Temporary service disruption
Temporary service disruption
Multiple reports of service interruption
System Status
Service Providers in Iowa
The following water providers serve the Iowa area: