Rising Minnesota River threatens homes, businesses near Shakopee
SHAKOPEE, Minn. — The rising Minnesota River is causing headaches for people who live, work and play in Scott County.
The river reached major flood stage on Wednesday morning and is expected to rise at least another couple of feet before cresting on Saturday.
Water is pouring over the river's banks onto streets and playgrounds. It's also threatening some homes and businesses. Officials are taking precautions in the area between Savage and down towards Shakopee.
Flood waters are beginning to back up nearby Eagle Creek. Officials in Savage say water will be pumped away from businesses while the river will actually sit across the Highway 13 corridor. The intersection of Zinran Avenue and West Highway 101 Frontage Road is temporarily closed. Crews also have sandbags and pumps in place to anticipate any possible flooding.
Down river in Shakopee, things look a bit more concerning, as the river is high over its banks and continuing to rise.
"Normally we take walks on the sidewalk. They have a long path," Sara Melby said.
Families are coming to Huber Park Amphitheater in Shakopee to see Mother Nature in full force.
"The other side of the tree line, that's where the river usually goes but it is usually many feet down below that, so it comes over the banks entirely," said David Melby.
The park typically draws in big crowds with live music every Thursday night in the summer.
"There is a sign, I don't know if you see it it's on the edge of town right before the bridge. There it has two marks on it — I think one is 1997. That was the second highest flooding and there is one for 1965 and that was the highest flooding on record and the line is above the lower line so it's in between the higher and lower line," said David Melby. "Oh yes, it's historic flooding here."
Scott County officials are urging people not to drive in flood waters. It only takes 12 inches of water to carry a vehicle away.