Pacific Junction Cleanup and Restoration

The Midwestern Floods of 2019 in Pacific Junction, Iowa — SERVPRO Team Toft Was Busy Helping the Community

Pacific Junction, Iowa, located in Mills County, has a long history tied to the expansion of the American railroad system. Founded in 1871, the town was established as a key junction point—serving as the western terminus of the Burlington Missouri River Railroad, the eastern terminus of the Nebraska Burlington and Missouri River Railroad, and a station on the Kansas City, Council Bluffs, and St. Joseph Railroad. After years of growth and development, Pacific Junction was officially incorporated in 1882. The community saw its population peak at just over 700 residents in the early 20th century, driven in part by the activity surrounding the Burlington Railroad Strike of 1888. Although railroad traffic still passes through the area, the town’s direct ties to the rail industry have significantly declined since 1971. By the 2020 census, the population stood at 96.

In 2019, Pacific Junction faced one of the most devastating natural disasters in its history. The Midwestern Floods of 2019 brought unprecedented destruction to the region. From January to May, the United States recorded its wettest period in history, and multiple severe weather systems added even more rainfall. The combination of snowmelt, heavy rain, and saturated ground resulted in catastrophic flooding across the Midwest. Pacific Junction was among the hardest hit communities.

The flooding forced evacuations, damaged homes and businesses, and left large areas underwater for weeks. Severe weather also brought lightning-related fires, adding to the widespread losses. Nearly 14 million people across the Midwest were affected, and Iowa tragically recorded three flood-related deaths. Federal aid for the disaster reached $12 billion, highlighting the scale of the event and the immense need for recovery assistance.

During this crisis, SERVPRO Team Toft was deeply involved in the restoration efforts. With extensive experience in water damage mitigation, structural drying, and fire restoration, SERVPRO Team Toft worked tirelessly to help families and businesses recover as quickly as possible. Their teams used advanced equipment and a round-the-clock response to support the overwhelming number of people needing assistance.

With so many communities affected simultaneously, SERVPRO Team Toft mobilized rapidly and efficiently to help as many residents as possible, striving to restore homes and properties to their pre-flood condition, “Like it never even happened.”