Regions throughout Minnesota will likely experience flooding this spring due to warming temperatures, snowmelt, rainfall and other factors that create the potential for flooding.

For the third consecutive year, forecasters predict major flooding along the Red River of the North, the Minnesota River and the Mississippi River from its headwaters near St. Paul, Minnesota, downstream to St. Louis.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), several snow events occurred across Minnesota that added to the normal snowpack. As a result, the NWS continues to point to the potential for severe flooding across Minnesota.

The NWS also reminds us that heavy rainfall at any time can lead to river flooding. Ice jams in the spring can cause water levels to rise quickly on rivers because of the significant ice accumulation.

The National Weather Service releases river crest forecasts.

Read the National Weather Service’s Spring Flood Outlook

On March 1, 2011, the Minnesota Department of Commerce released a statement urging Minnesota residents and businesses to prepare for spring flooding in order to mitigate potential losses.

Read the entire news release.

Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Emergency Management Volunteers

Coverage Analysis for Members Responding to Requests for Assistance Regarding the Red River Flood

What Volunteers are Covered for Workers’ Compensation

Flooding: An Action Plan

University of Minnesota Extension

Road Closures
Minnesota Department of Transportation 511 Traveler Information ( http://511mn.org)