Minneapolis/ Weather & Environment
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Published on June 17, 2024
Minneapolis on Alert for Severe Weather, Flood Watches and Thunderstorms Threaten the RegionSource: Unsplash / Johannes Plenio

Minneapolis is bracing itself for another wave of adverse weather conditions, extending into the week, with hazardous weather outlooks and flood watches in place. National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN has reported that the region should expect ongoing thunderstorms, potentially carrying severe weather threats, including heavy rainfall and the chance of flash flooding.

Issued early Monday morning, the forecast detailed that thunderstorms had already begun, with variable wind gusts from 40 to 65 mph being observed. "Isolated large hail and flash flooding are
possible as well," according to the weather service. While the storms are set to continue throughout the day, a flood watch is now in effect through late Tuesday night, highlighting the risk of rivers, creeks, streams, and flood-prone locations becoming submerged by excessive runoff.

Flooding has increased along various rivers within Minnesota, prompting extended warnings for the South Fork Crow River at Delano, affecting Wright and Hennepin Counties. Inundation is a concern as multiple rounds of thunderstorms could lead to heavy rainfall totals and flash flooding. Moreover, the flood warning for the Minnesota River at Montevideo has been lifted.

The region is not only dealing with the immediate threat of flooding, but the consequent implications on infrastructure also loom overhead. Impacts include the possibility of road closures, as flooding occurs on 90th St SE and approach County Rd 17 by 20.5 ft. As the rivers are expected to rise beyond flood stages by Tuesday afternoon, the National Weather Service cautions the public: "Turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded toads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles." Such warnings are emblematic of the critical nature of the developing situation.

Residents are being asked to stay alert and follow updates from weather forecasts, while emergency services remain on standby for potential activations. The SKYWARN spotter activation may be needed throughout the region to assist in monitoring and reporting severe weather, further highlighting the gravity of the unfolding weather crisis.