Rochester, MN – Residents across southeast Minnesota are being warned of increasing flooding threats today as heavy rain continues across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, Wisconsin, waves of thunderstorms producing 1 to 2 inches of rain per hour are expected through 6 a.m. Wednesday. Forecasters say 2 to 4 inches of rain is likely, with a 20% chance that totals could approach 5 inches in localized areas.
The heaviest rainfall is centered around Rochester and surrounding counties, where saturated ground and ongoing showers are raising the risk of flash flooding. Officials warn that flooding of roadways and creeks is possible, and mudslides could occur in steeper terrain.
Drivers are advised to never cross flooded roads and to use caution during the morning commute. The weather service also recommends that campers and residents near waterways be prepared to seek higher ground if water levels rise.
Flash flooding, rock and mudslides, and urban street flooding are all potential hazards through the morning hours. The system is expected to bring repeated rounds of storms, compounding flooding risks in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the public to stay weather aware. Updates and alerts are available at weather.gov/lacrosse.
