Rochester Under Flood Watch as Southeast Minnesota Faces Up to 5 Inches Heavy Rain Threat
ROCHESTER, Minn. — Residents in southeast Minnesota are bracing for significant rainfall through Wednesday morning, as forecasters warn of flash flooding risks across the region.
Forecast Calls for Heavy Rainfall
The National Weather Service in La Crosse, Wisconsin said waves of thunderstorms will bring 1 to 2 inches of rain per hour, continuing into early Wednesday. Total rainfall of 2 to 4 inches is expected, with a 20% chance of localized totals reaching 5 inches.
Flooding Concerns for Rochester and Surrounding Counties
The heaviest rain is forecast for Rochester and nearby counties, where saturated ground is already raising the likelihood of flash flooding. Officials warn that water could quickly overwhelm:
- Roadways and city streets
- Small creeks and rivers
- Steep terrain, where mudslides may occur
Safety Precautions
Authorities emphasize:
- Never drive through flooded roads, as just a few inches of moving water can sweep away a vehicle.
- Campers and residents near waterways should be ready to seek higher ground if water rises.
- Commuters are advised to use caution during the Tuesday morning commute, when localized flooding is most likely.
Flash flooding, urban street flooding, and rock or mudslides remain possible through the morning hours.
Monitoring the Situation
The National Weather Service continues to track the evolving storm system, warning that repeated rounds of thunderstorms could compound flooding risks in low-lying and poorly drained areas. Updates will be available at weather.gov/lacrosse.
Do you think southeast Minnesota is prepared for worsening flash flood threats, or should more emergency resources be deployed in advance? Share your perspective with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
