Aberdeen, S.D. – Minor flooding is developing along the James River at Columbia, where waters are expected to crest at 13 feet Monday afternoon, placing nearby farmland and low-lying areas at risk.
According to the National Weather Service in Aberdeen, a Flood Warning remains in effect for Brown County until 7 p.m. CDT. At 11 a.m. Monday, the river was already at flood stage, with forecasters warning that agricultural land near Columbia could see inundation through the evening.
Officials urge residents to use extreme caution near riverbanks and avoid driving across flooded roads. The NWS warns that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles, emphasizing the message “Turn around, don’t drown.” Motorists should plan alternate routes and avoid attempting to cross barricades.
The James River’s rise is not expected to reach major flood levels, but even minor flooding can damage crops, disrupt farm access, and limit rural travel. Emergency management officials in Brown County are monitoring conditions closely and advise residents to stay updated on river levels.
The Flood Warning remains in effect until this evening, with the next update from the National Weather Service expected at 7 p.m. CDT.
