Minnesota prepares for major flooding after snowy winter

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Emergency managers say most of Minnesota should escape serious flooding. But they cautioned Wednesday (April 19, 2023) that higher-than-expected rains in the coming days or rapid snowmelt in the Red River Valley could raise the threat. Dan Hawblitzel at the National Weather Service in Chanhassen says they expect a peak over the next week to 10 days. But he said at a briefing for reporters they’re assuming no more significant sources of precipitation. And he says they can’t guarantee that. Communities along Minnesota’s major rivers have been preparing for weeks. And state and federal agencies say they’re ready to provide more aid if necessary.