AMES, Iowa — This week’s heavy thunderstorms have caused flash flooding in the Ames area, making it difficult for local letter carriers to make all of their deliveries, officials from the U.S. Postal Service's Des Moines-based Hawkeye District said today.

While the Ames Main Post Office has not been affected by the flooding, several employees who live in outlying areas are finding it difficult to get to work.

Normal flooding of the Squaw Creek and Skunk Rivers typically doesn’t hinder commerce or mobility – however, after three consecutive days of heavy rain, the ground is saturated, causing the widespread flooding.

"All of our deliveries will be attempted as safely as possible," said Ames Postmaster Larry Jordison. "There will be a number of rural deliveries missed today due to roads being washed-out or covered by water. City deliveries that are affected are mostly businesses and residents on the southeast side of town – with several routes currently under water."

Jordison added that the he and his staff are hitting the street with all available personnel to deliver mail where it is safe to do so. Indications are that the water will recede today, which may allow postal employees to attempt all deliveries by the end of the day.

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