Spring flood risk downgraded

The National Weather Service (NWS) recently downgraded the risk of severe flooding for Minnesotas rivers. Dry weather and a slow thaw have combined to lessen the likelihood of record flood crests. However, conditions are still ripe for high water in some areas.

According to the forecast: "Above normal rainfall early in the fall, combined with snowfall that was much above normal for the period from December through mid-February, has led to the potential for significant flooding along many rivers in Minnesota."

In St. Paul, the NWS predicts a 60 percent chance that Warner Road may be impassable and a 61 percent probability that Harriet Island will be submerged. The probability of a record flood where the Mississippi would swell to 1965s record flood level of 26.01 feet has decreased to 8 percent.

For more on the flood forecast, please visit the National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office.