The following information was provided in a press release from the governor’s office Saturday morning:
Gov. Kim Reynolds has ordered a partial activation of the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Johnston to ensure State of Iowa agencies are prepared in the event COVID-19 is detected in the state.
“While no positive tests of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Iowa at this time, we are proactively coordinating plans across state agencies to protect the health of Iowans and assess our operational needs so we are as prepared as possible,” said Reynolds. “We will continue to work with President Trump and his Coronavirus Task Force to make sure Iowa has the resources, information, and expertise to keep our communities safe.”
The partial activation began March 4 and was followed by a state agency conference call led by Reynolds on March 6 to discuss preparedness strategies.
The SEOC provides a mechanism for face-to-face coordination and information sharing between State agencies and other partners. Beginning Monday, March 9, twice-weekly agency coordination briefings will be held to provide the latest information on COVID-19 and to ensure necessary preparedness measures are in place.
Should the situation change, the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is prepared to transition the State Emergency Operations Center to an increased level of activation.
