Duluth, Minn. – Rounds of torrential rain are putting communities across northern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin on high alert, with a Flood Watch in effect through 7 a.m. Thursday. Roadways from Duluth to Brainerd and across Hayward could become impassable if flash flooding develops overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, heavy rain is expected to fall on already saturated ground, raising the risk of dangerous runoff across St. Louis, Aitkin, Pine, and Carlton counties in Minnesota, and Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Sawyer, and Washburn counties in Wisconsin. Tribal lands including Red Cliff, Bad River, Fond du Lac, and Mille Lacs, as well as the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and the Boundary Waters, are also at risk.
Drivers should avoid low-lying roads near rivers and creeks, especially after dark when flooded spots can be harder to see. Local officials urge residents to have emergency kits ready, charge mobile devices, and move valuables out of basements. Several areas—including Brainerd, Grand Rapids, Spooner, and Pine City—could see stream and road flooding with little warning if rainfall rates increase.
This marks the region’s second major rainfall event in as many weeks, compounding the flood risk. The Flood Watch remains active until Thursday morning, with additional advisories possible if rainfall continues. Stay tuned for updated alerts as the situation develops.
