PROJECT ALERT NOTICE (MN) Flooding in Minnesota continues

Date: Fri, 21 Jun 2024 12:36:58 EDT

Summary: Repeated rainfall during the past few weeks is exacerbating flooding across Minnesota.

Repeated rainfall the past few weeks is exacerbating flooding in Minnesota. Approximately 4 or more inches of rain fell overnight in southwest Minnesota. This follows an estimated 6-inches of rain earlier this week that fell in southern Minnesota (Mississippi and Minnesota River basins) and northern Minnesota (Lake Superior and Rainy River Basins).

Currently, all telemetered gages are operational. Eight staff are deployed in the affected areas. Most of the gages in extreme southwest Minnesota are non-telemetered crest stage gages so staff plan to measure or flag high-water marks for indirect measurements as needed. USGS activities include discharge measurements, monitoring LSPIV sites, communicating and coordinating with other agencies via email and NWSChat, responding to questions from the public and coordinating possible interviews with print and television media and Office of Communication. No telemetered sites with more than 20 years of record have recorded peaks of record yet. Thirteen gages are above Flood Action Levels, 6 above minor flood levels, and 1 above major flood level. Seven gages operated by the USGS are forecast to exceed NWS major flood levels.

Up to 4 inches of rain is forecast for southern Minnesota through Saturday. Depending on that rainfall, selected staff may be deployed over the weekend. Mainstem rivers including the Mississippi River will continue rising well into next week, beyond the NWS river forecast period.