Departing Madison County emergency manager reflects on time on the job

WINTERSET, Iowa — The man who helped lead Madison County through one of its most difficult years is moving on to a new opportunity.

Diogenes Ayala, known as “Dio,” says the day of the Winterset tornado in March of 2022 was one of the most difficult of his career. Ayala recalls trying to warn people as much as he could, coordinating the response to the tornado, and trying to help the community heal.

Ayala notes the importance of preparation in the job of emergency manager but feels loving the community you serve is even more vital.

Understandably, Ayala says moving on from his role in Madison County is bittersweet. Reflecting on his time on the job, he expects to miss community events like kid’s camps and other forms of community outreach.

Overall, Ayala emphasizes how important it is to keep people informed and warns of the dangers of misinformation that easily fills communication gaps.

Ayala’s last day as Director of Emergency Management is Friday, October 18th. He hasn’t announced his next move but says he’s staying in central Iowa.

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