Predicted Heavy Rain Brings Widespread Flood Threat to Minnesota

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- Multiple rounds of heavy rain are presenting a risk for potential flooding throughout southern Minnesota in the coming days.

See Also: Severe Storm Leaves Wake of Destruction After Striking Rochester

That’s according to a forecast issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday morning.

The prediction comes just days after heavy rain and strong thunderstorms hammered northeastern Minnesota. The storms dropped as much as seven inches of rain in some communities, which led to widespread flooding and damage to public infrastructure.

Canva/National Weather Service

National Weather Service forecasters are predicting multiple rounds of heavy rain will create an enhanced risk of flooding for multiple Minnesota population centers.

Forecasted Significant Rain Totals to Create Widespread Flooding Risk in Minnesota

Rochester, Faribault, Owatonna, Albert Lea and the Twin Cities Metro are just some of the communities that are deemed to be in a level three out of four flooding risk.

A level three risk means localized flooding is likely, the National Weather Service says.

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The first round of heavy rain predicted to create the flooding threat is set to move into southeastern Minnesota Friday morning. The second round is set to arrive Friday evening and the third and final round is forecasted to sweep across the area Saturday morning, the forecast says.

Forecasters are predicting widespread rainfall amounts ranging from 2-4 inches by Saturday morning. Some areas in the flood risk zone could receive up to six inches of rain.

Photo courtesy Mike Dougherty. From July 2019 in Rochester

The predicted heavy rainfall could also cause rivers in southeastern Minnesota to rise to flood level by next week. Urban and street flooding is the main risk associated with the potential storm, officials say.

There’s also a lesser risk for flash flooding. The system predicted to bring the final round of heavy rain on Saturday could also produce a severe thunderstorm.

The potential scattered severe thunderstorm could produce damaging winds, the forecast says.

Forecasters are urging Minnesotans to monitor the latest weather conditions and to avoid driving through flooded areas. They’re asking anyone with outdoor plans to stay weather aware.