Flash Flood Warning Issued In Hennepin, Ramsey Counties

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The National Weather Service is issuing a flash flood warning for parts of Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka and Washington Counties until 3:45 a.m. Thursday morning.

A line of severe thunderstorms came barreling across the Twin Cities Wednesday evening with storms that stretched from just beyond the northwest metro area all the way into western Wisconsin.

In particular, a massive downpour in Maple Grove has authorities responding to multiple calls of flooding and stalled vehicles in roadways. The Maple Grove Police Department issued a statement urging residents to shelter in place until the potentially life-threatening flood conditions subside.

Blue Line trains on the light rail were temporarily unable continue past the 28th Avenue Station Wednesday night. Metro Transit had replacement buses carrying riders on to the final stop at the Mall of America Station. Service was back to normal by 10 p.m.

According to WCCO Meteorologist Chris Shaffer, the water levels in rivers and in the ground are already high, creating a significantly higher threat for flooding as heavy storms roll through. The potential for mudslides is up as well.

The storms will push from the northwest to the southeast as the night continues, Shaffer said, with most of the moisture falling during the overnight hours. The heaviest portions will fall to the south, as scattered showers continue into the morning hours.

The NWS is urging those close to rivers to move to higher ground, and the Hennepin County Sheriff reminds drivers not to try to drive through flooded areas.

Resources:

• Severe Weather Center
• Radar
• Download the WCCO Weather App

In:
• National Weather Service