Mankato, Minn. – Drivers across much of southern, western, and central Minnesota could encounter flooded roads and rapidly rising water through Friday as slow-moving thunderstorms continue to dump torrential rainfall across the region. Some communities could receive more than 6 inches of rain, creating a significant flash flood threat, especially near creeks, streams, and low-lying areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen, a Flood Watch remains in effect for portions of west-central, southwest, central, and south-central Minnesota. The watch continues until noon Friday for counties including Kandiyohi, Meeker, McLeod, Renville, Redwood, Brown, Nicollet, Le Sueur, Swift, Yellow Medicine, Chippewa, and Lac qui Parle. Farther south, the watch has been extended through Friday afternoon for Blue Earth, Faribault, Freeborn, Martin, Steele, Waseca, and Watonwan counties.
Communities including Mankato, Albert Lea, Fairmont, Owatonna, Waseca, St. James, Willmar, Hutchinson, New Ulm, Redwood Falls, Montevideo, Granite Falls, Benson, St. Peter, Gaylord, Olivia, Madison, and Le Sueur could experience periods of intense rainfall capable of overwhelming drainage systems.
Widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected, with localized corridors exceeding 6 inches where thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same locations. Urban flooding, flooded intersections, and rapidly rising creeks and streams are the primary concerns. Rural areas with poor drainage and steeper terrain may also experience flash flooding.
Residents should avoid driving across flooded roadways, monitor changing conditions throughout the day, and remain prepared to move to higher ground if Flash Flood Warnings are issued. Additional flood and flash flood advisories may be needed as thunderstorms continue to develop through Friday afternoon.
