NOAA: Delayed melt, more rain could mean "major" spring flooding along Mississippi River

MINNEAPOLIS -- National weather officials say flooding along the Mississippi River this spring could be the worst seen since 2001.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Thursday released an updated spring flooding outlook, including for mainstem Mississippi River from the Twin Cities down to Keokuk, Iowa.

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According to the NOAA, the flood potential for this segment of the river is "well above normal" and flood risk numbers indicate flooding could rival what was seen in the spring of 2019.

"If the melt is delayed and significant rainfall is added, we could see the worst flooding in over 20 years," the outlook said.

The NOAA says the risk is also above normal across much of the Red River of the North drainage basin.

Repeated major storm systems, which have included both snow and rain, have led to the higher flooding risk, officials said.

In Hastings, the Mississippi River is just over five feet deep. Projections show that has almost a guaranteed chance to double, and a toss-up chance of water levels reaching 17 feet, which would constitute as "moderate" flooding.

In 1965, the river hit its all-time high in Hastings at 25 feet and 9 inches.

"That was the greatest flood that they've ever seen around here," said John Jahr of Hastings. "I was a kid living in Mounds Park; we'd go down after the flood receded, and we were catching carp along the railroad tracks with fishing rods. They were trapped in the pools between the railroad tracks and the river. That's how bad it was."

Overall, the flood potential for much of Minnesota -- and northwest Wisconsin -- is above normal. 

"It's mother nature," Jahr said. "What are you going to do? What can you do to prepare? Other than just be careful when you want to put your boat in."

The NOAA says with at least four to six weeks more of wintry weather expected, there is an "enhanced" possibility for minor to moderate flooding yet this spring.