Rising Minnesota rivers trigger highway, bridge closures
MINNEAPOLIS — More rain will fall across parts of Minnesota on Friday and Saturday, exacerbating flood conditions and putting several communities at risk.
A flood warning is in effect in west-central and northeastern Minnesota until 5 p.m. Friday.
Governor travels to flood-ravaged Iron Range
Gov. Tim Walz headed to northern Minnesota on Friday to check on flood damage. He met with local leaders and emergency responders in Biwabik, home to Giants Ridge Recreation Area, before traveling an hour northwest to Cook to learn more about the flood's impact.
"Here amidst the flooding, I am reminded of the strength and resilience of Minnesotans. Together we will build back, and the state stands ready to support," said Walz.
St. Louis County declared a state of emergency, allowing the county to establish eligibility for state disaster relief funding.
Boil water advisory in Biwabik
Water line washouts have resulted in a boil water advisory in Biwabik, which is near Giant's Ridge.
Grandma's Marathon
Organizers of Grandma's Marathon, which is run between Two Harbors and Duluth, say they'll have to make a "race-day decision" because of Saturday's forecast.
Tens of thousands of runners will have to wait for an update at 3 a.m. Saturday to find out whether the race will happen.
Mississippi River in St. Paul
The Mississippi River in St. Paul is expected to rise fast over the weekend and is projected to reach major flood stage by early next week.
By this Thursday, the water could be 9-feet higher than it is right now.
Rain has also contributed to delaying the reopening of part of Snelling Avenue/Highway 51 in St. Paul. The half-mile stretch of road between Ford Parkway and Montreal Avenue is now expected to reopen early in July.
Fort Snelling closes Saturday
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says Fort Snelling State Park will close on Saturday until flood water recede and crews can address related clean-up and repairs.
The closure will go into effect at 10 p.m. Saturday, as water from the rising Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers is expected to flood the main park road.
Minnehaha Creek in Edina
In the west metro, the Minnehaha Creek is threatening neighborhoods. Edina is encouraging residents to make sure sump pumps are working, secure patio furniture and move valuables to higher levels in their homes.
South Fork Crow River in Delano, Watertown
The city of Delano has closed 90th Street due to the rising South Fork Crow River. Crews placed a floodwall outside Bridge Avenue on Wednesday in anticipation.
In Watertown, Highway 27 is closed at Maple Street Northwest. Highway 30 near New Germany and Highway 123 between Watertown and Mayer are also closed, along with Carver's Main Street Bridge.
Minnesota River communities on edge
Highway 41 connecting downtown Chaska to Shakopee is closed between First Street and Dem Con Drive due to the swollen Minnesota River.
On Wednesday night, county public works crews closed a portion of Highway 11 near Jordan.
The highways will remain closed until the water recedes and crews can repair any resulting road damage.
Cannon River floods Waterville neighborhoods
The town of Waterville is asking for volunteers to fill sandbags during two sessions on Friday: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Volunteers must be 18 or older and are asked to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes.
Crews prep Stillwater Lift Bridge as St. Croix River swells
On Friday, maintenance crews will temporarily close the Stillwater Lift Bridge to begin the process of weighing it down. The Minnesota Department of Transportation says ballast will be placed on the two stationery ends of the bridge to prevent it from moving in flood waters.
The preparations were completed by 1 p.m. Workers blocked access to both ends to prevent pedestrians and bicyclists from using the crossing. Boats that are less than 15 feet can pass beneath the bridge while the lift span is raised.
MnDOT warns motorists of detour laws
MnDOT is urging drivers to follow the posted detour signs to get around, in addition to reminding motorists that when a road is closed it's illegal to travel in that area.
Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or spend 90 days in jail, and that's not including other penalties or expenses from rescue efforts.