Flash Flooding, Mudslides Occurring Just South of the Twin Cities
St. Peter, MN (KROC-AM News) - Torrential rains from strong thunderstorms have prompted the National Weather Service to issue flash flood warnings for portions of Goodhue, Dakota and Rice Counties, along with sections of Le Sueur and Scott counties this afternoon.
Reports indicate 2 to 3 inches of rain has already fallen and another inch or 2 of rain is possible from the strong storm system hitting parts of southern Minnesota today. The heavy rains have resulted in mudslides that have closed down a section of the main highway connecting the Twin Cities to Mankato.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation is reporting it has heavy equipment at the scene working to clear the mud off Highway 169 south of St. Peter, but the rain falling on the saturated hillside is resulting in continued mudslide activity that is blocking the roadway.
Other roadways in the areas covered by the flash flood warning have become covered by water. Officials are warning motorists not to attempt to cross any flooded roads they might encounter because of the dangers associated with the fast-moving water and potential washouts.
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