Minneapolis, Minn. – A slow-moving storm system is expected to drench much of the Upper Midwest with repeated rounds of thunderstorms through Monday, raising the risk of flash flooding in several states.
According to the National Weather Service, a Slight Risk of Excessive Rainfall remains in place through tonight across eastern North and South Dakota, central and southern Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. Clusters of thunderstorms are expected to train over the same areas, leading to long-duration rainfall totals that could flood roads and low-lying areas overnight.
In Minnesota, the heaviest rain bands are projected to stretch from Mankato through the Twin Cities into western Wisconsin, where travel could be slowed by ponding on highways including I-94 and I-35. Northern Iowa communities such as Mason City and Decorah may also see flash flooding, especially near creeks and rivers already running high from recent rain.
By Monday, the system shifts east, bringing renewed flooding concerns to southern Wisconsin, northeast Iowa, and northern Illinois, including Madison, Rockford, and the Chicago suburbs. Local officials advise drivers not to attempt crossing flooded roadways and to prepare for delays during the Monday morning commute.
The front should gain momentum Tuesday, pushing the heaviest storms south into Missouri and the Ohio Valley, where flooding risks will continue but ease for Minnesota and the Dakotas.
